Antmimic Spider
Scientific Name: Myrmecium spp. (likely Castianeira spp. or similar ant-mimicking sac spider, exact species hard to determine from image)
Order & Family: Order: Araneae, Family: Corinnidae (or Gnaphosidae)
Size: Typically small to medium-sized, ranging from 5 to 15 mm in body length.
Natural Habitat
Often found in gardens, under rocks, leaf litter, and around human dwellings. They mimic ants to avoid predation and may be found in areas where ants are present.
Diet & Feeding
Predatory, feeding on various small insects and other arthropods. They actively hunt their prey rather than building webs.
Behavior Patterns
Antmimic spiders are known for their remarkable mimicry of ants, both in appearance and behavior. They often move in an ant-like fashion, raising their front legs to simulate antennae, which helps them avoid predators and get close to ant prey (though not all species primarily hunt ants). They are active hunters, often solitary, and can be found during the day.
Risks & Benefits
Antmimic spiders are generally considered harmless to humans. Their bites are rare and typically result in mild, localized reactions if they occur. They provide ecological benefits by preying on other insects, helping to control pest populations in gardens and other environments.
Identified on: 9/22/2025