donkere stekelpoot
Zora nemoralis
Photo: iNaturalist: (c) Kamil Hurna, some rights reserved (CC BY-NC), uploaded by Kamil Hurna
Overview
The donkere stekelpoot (Zora nemoralis) is a medium-sized wolf spider characterized by its distinctive dark coloration and prominent spiny legs that give it its common name. This nocturnal predator plays a crucial role in forest ecosystems by controlling populations of small arthropods and insects through active hunting rather than web-building.
Zora nemoralis faces significant pressure from habitat fragmentation and degradation of forest ecosystems across its range. Urban development and agricultural expansion have reduced the availability of suitable woodland habitats, while climate change may be altering the microclimatic conditions this species requires for successful reproduction and prey availability.
Habitat
This species inhabits deciduous and mixed woodlands, forest edges, and well-vegetated gardens with dense understory vegetation. It typically occurs in areas with abundant leaf litter and fallen logs that provide shelter and hunting grounds for small arthropod prey.
Other threatened species in Miturgidae
Threatened in Austria
Frequently asked questions
Why is donkere stekelpoot classified as Vulnerable?
Where does donkere stekelpoot live?
What are the main threats to donkere stekelpoot?
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