T.E.R:R.A.I.N - Taranaki Educational Resource: Research, Analysis and Information Network

Spider (False Katipo)(Steatoda capensis)

Kingdom: Animalia

Phylum: Arthropoda 

Class: Arachnida 

Order: Araneae

Family: Theridiidae

Genus: Steatoda 

Species: S. capensis 

Scientific name: Steatoda capensis

Common name: False katipo spider , Black cobweb spider

They are a spider of a body length up to 7 mm.

Originating from South Africa it is now commonly found in New Zealand.  They can be f

ound under logs or any dark places. It is much more common than the katipo. They catch small crawling insects. 
Unlike the katipo the bite of the false katipo spider is not harmful, but it stings and the area bitten aches for an hour. It may also cause headaches or nausea. Small blisters may occur around the bite site.




Below is photo on a False Katipo that has been feeding on another False Katipo


Steatoda capensis w hen disturbed they will curl up and stay motionless.
This photo is of a one playing dead upside down.

Steatoda capensis and her egg sacs

 

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