Giant Lichen Orbweaver Spider: Anatomy, Behavior, and Habitat Explained

The Giant Lichen Orbweaver is a fascinating spider that has developed a unique way to blend into its environment. By camouflaging itself against lichen-covered surfaces, this arachnid can easily evade predators and hunt for prey in a stealthy manner. The intricate pattern on its body closely resembles the appearance of lichen, allowing it to become nearly invisible when resting on tree trunks or rocks.

These spiders are part of the large Araneidae family and are known for spinning somewhat circular, spiral, and wheel-shaped webs. Their webs are not only a means of capturing prey but also serve as a protective retreat for the spider. The Giant Lichen Orbweaver’s interactions with lichen demonstrate the complexities and interconnectedness of various species within an ecosystem.

The Giant Lichen Orbweaver’s features include:

• Camouflage resembling lichen patterns
• Circular, spiral, wheel-shaped webs
• Stealthy hunting and predator evasion techniques

Understanding the Giant Lichen Orbweaver offers insights into the fascinating world of arachnids and the role they play in maintaining the delicate balance in our natural ecosystems.

Basic Information

Classification and Taxonomy

The Giant Lichen Orbweaver (Araneus bicentenarius) is a species of spider belonging to the phylum Arthropoda and the class Arachnida. Within the class Arachnida, it is a part of the order Araneae which includes all spiders. The Giant Lichen Orbweaver is categorized under the suborder Araneomorphae and it is a member of the family Araneidae.

Physical Appearance

• Size: Generally small to medium-sized.
• Coloration: Camouflage abilities with lichen-like patterns.
• Legs: Eight, like other spiders.
• Orb-webs: Distinctive circular webs.

Habitat and Distribution

The Giant Lichen Orbweaver can be found in various habitats across the United States, particularly in the southeastern region.

• United States: Texas, Georgia, and areas in between.
• Canada: Some sightings reported, but less frequent.

This spider species has been documented since 1888, illustrating its long-standing presence in North America. Its habitat mainly includes forests, shrubs, and areas with lichen-covered trees, which provide perfect camouflage for the spider. The distribution of the Giant Lichen Orbweaver corresponds to the locations where lichen is prevalent, emphasizing the connection between the spider and its environment.

Behavior and Ecology

Web Construction

The Giant Lichen Orbweaver belongs to the Araneidae family, commonly known as orb-weavers. As the name suggests, they create orb-shaped webs for catching prey, often building their webs in:

• Trees
• Bushes
• Tall grasses

Their webs owe their strength to a variety of silk types used in construction, making them efficient for catching different types of insects.

Prey and Feeding

Giant Lichen Orbweavers prefer a diet of:

• Flies
• Mosquitoes
• Moths
• Small beetles

Feeding on such a diverse range of prey helps maintain a healthy ecosystem by controlling insect populations. They display remarkable camouflage against lichen, which allows them to ambush their prey effectively.

Pros:

• Controls insect populations
• Contributes to balanced ecosystems

Cons:

• Disturbing their webs may lead to rebuilding, consuming energy
• May accidentally catch non-target insects

When comparing Giant Lichen Orbweavers to other spiders, consider the following table:

Identification and Description

Male vs Female Giant Lichen Orbweavers

Male and female Giant Lichen Orbweavers exhibit slight differences in their appearances. Here’s a comparison table highlighting the key distinctions:

Size and Color Differences

Giant Lichen Orbweavers are medium-sized spiders, known for their cryptic coloration. Their size and color serve as effective camouflage, resembling tree bark or lichen. Some features of their size and color include:

• Size: Adults range between 0.3 to 0.6 inches in body length
• Color: They display a green pattern on their abdomen and legs, with variations in shade

These spiders exhibit sexual dimorphism, with females being larger and more colorful than males. Females tend to have a larger, rounder abdomen, while males have a longer, more elongated abdomen.

Examples of color variations in Giant Lichen Orbweavers:

• Bright green hues dominating the abdomen
• Darker green legs with contrasting light bands

In conclusion, identifying Giant Lichen Orbweavers can be done by observing their size, coloration, abdominal shape, and leg markings. Paying attention to these features will help in differentiating between male and female individuals.

Interaction with Humans

Bites and Venom

The Giant Lichen Orbweaver (Araneus bicentenarius) is generally not considered a threat to humans. Its venom, like that of other orbweaver spiders, is typically not harmful. Bites from this spider are rare and often occur as a reaction to being accidentally handled or disturbed. Symptoms of a Giant Lichen Orbweaver bite may include:

• Mild pain or discomfort
• Localized swelling
• Itching

For comparison, here is a table of venomous versus non-venomous spiders:

Orbweaver Spiders in the Home and Garden

Giant Lichen Orbweaver spiders are beneficial creatures to have around your home and garden. They are excellent natural predators for a variety of insect pests. Common spiders like Giant Lichen Orbweavers help to control flies, mosquitoes, and other unwanted guests.

Some features of Giant Lichen Orbweavers are:

• Large, round bodies
• Beautiful and intricate lichen-like patterns
• Diurnal behavior, meaning they are active during the day
• Construction of large, vertical orb-shaped webs

If you encounter a Giant Lichen Orbweaver in your home or garden, it is essential to treat it humanely. You can relocate the spider to a safe location by gently coaxing it onto a piece of paper or a flat object and carrying it outside.

Remember, when you find an orbweaver in your home or garden, it’s usually a sign that you have a healthy environment for these beneficial creatures. So don’t be afraid – they’re here to help!

Additional Information

Seasonality

The Giant Lichen Orbweaver is typically active during the warmer months, with peak activity occurring in May.

• Found in southeastern Canada and the United States
• Most active in May

Regional Species

This spider can be found in various regions across North America, such as:

• Southeastern Canada
• Arkansas
• Florida
• Georgia
• Iowa
• Kansas
• Louisiana
• Maine
• North Carolina
• South Carolina
• Tennessee
• Wisconsin
• Alabama
• Minnesota

As they are often found in forest environments, the Giant Lichen Orbweaver may come in contact with different lichens specific to those regions.

Note: The lichen species listed in the table are examples of what may be encountered in those regions. For more information on regional lichens, refer to dedicated lichen field guides or your local National Forest Service.