kuppelhodeedderkopp
Walckenaeria mitrata
The kuppelhodeedderkopp (Walckenaeria mitrata) is a tiny sheet weaver spider measuring only 1-2mm in length, characterized by its distinctive domed or helmet-like cephalic structure that gives it its common name. This diminutive arachnid plays an important ecological role as both predator of minute invertebrates and prey for larger arthropods in specialized microhabitat communities.
18
Countries
Taxonomy & Classification
Kingdom
Animalia
Phylum
Arthropoda
Class
Arachnida
Order
Araneae
Family
Linyphiidae
Genus
Walckenaeria
kuppelhodeedderkopp belongs to the family Linyphiidae, order Araneae, within the Arachnida class.
Species Profile
The kuppelhodeedderkopp (Walckenaeria mitrata) is a tiny sheet weaver spider measuring only 1-2mm in length, characterized by its distinctive domed or helmet-like cephalic structure that gives it its common name. This diminutive arachnid plays an important ecological role as both predator of minute invertebrates and prey for larger arthropods in specialized microhabitat communities.
Walckenaeria mitrata faces severe population declines primarily due to habitat destruction and fragmentation of its specialized wetland environments. Climate change and hydrological alterations are further reducing the availability of suitable bog and marsh habitats this species requires.
Key Facts
Habitat & Distribution
Walckenaeria mitrata inhabits moss-rich environments, leaf litter layers, and the interface zones between soil and low vegetation where humidity levels remain consistently high. The species shows particular affinity for undisturbed areas with dense bryophyte coverage and stable microclimatic conditions.
Threats
IUCN Red List: Endangered
Walckenaeria mitrata faces severe population declines primarily due to habitat destruction and fragmentation of its specialized wetland environments. Climate change and hydrological alterations are further reducing the availability of suitable bog and marsh habitats this species requires.
Habitat loss and fragmentation
Wetland drainage and conversion
Agricultural intensification
Climate change impacts on bog ecosystems
Hydrological alterations
Found in 18 Countries
Community Sightings
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Sources & Attribution
How to Cite
IUCN: IUCN (2025). The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. Version 2025-1. Available at: https://www.iucnredlist.org. doi:10.2305/IUCN.UK.2025-1.RLTS
GBIF: GBIF.org (2025). GBIF Home Page. Available at: https://www.gbif.org
This page: SpeciesRadar (2025). kuppelhodeedderkopp (Walckenaeria mitrata). SpeciesRadar: Intelligence for Earth's Biodiversity. Available at: https://speciesradar.org/species/kuppelhodeedderkopp