Uloborus sp. is a genus of cribellate orb-weaving spiders belonging
to the family Uloboridae. Found in a variety of regions across the world,
including tropical and temperate zones, Uloborus spiders are unique in
that they do not possess venom glands, unlike most other spiders. Instead, they
rely on their silk to capture and subdue prey. The spiders typically measure
between 3 to 7 mm, with females being larger than males. Their bodies are
elongated, and they often have cryptic brown or grayish coloration, helping
them blend into their surroundings such as twigs, branches, or dry vegetation.
A distinctive feature of Uloborus sp. is their production of
cribellate silk, a type of non-sticky silk that is extremely fine and woolly in
texture. They use this silk to weave highly intricate orb webs that effectively
entangle small insects, such as flies and moths. Once an insect is ensnared,
the spider wraps it tightly in silk, immobilizing it without venom.
Uloborus spiders are often found in gardens, forests, and shrublands, where they build
their webs horizontally or at an angle, often in areas with low vegetation.
Their behavior is generally passive, and they are non-aggressive toward humans.
As effective insect hunters, they play a crucial role in managing pest
populations in their ecosyste