Marbled Orb Weaver

Description:

Two main forms of this species are known. The nominate form has an orange abdomen with black or brown marbling while var. pyramidatus is much paler, sometimes almost white, with a single dark blotch towards the rear of the abdomen. The nominate form is found throughout the species' range while var. pyramidatus is found only in Europe, where the two varieties are seldom found together. The female has a body length (excluding legs) of up to 14 mm while the male is rather smaller at 9 mm.

Habitat:

The web is built low down in heathland and in woodland clearings. Var. pyramidatus is found only in Europe