Orbweavers

Orbweavers are spiders belonging to the family Araneidae within the order Araneae. They are among the most recognizable spiders due to their characteristic wheel-shaped webs. With roughly 2,000 described species in about 100 genera, orbweavers are widely distributed across habitats worldwide, from woodlands and grasslands to gardens and urban areas.

Their webs are circular, featuring radial spokes and a central capture spiral that is coated with sticky droplets to trap prey. The frame and non-sticky silk at the hub provide structure. Some species incorporate stabilimenta, decorative zigzag silk patterns whose exact function is debated and may include predator avoidance or prey attraction.

Orbweavers typically wait in or near the center of the web, detecting prey primarily through vibrations. When prey is captured, they quickly wrap it in silk. Males are often smaller than females and perform courtship rituals to reduce the risk of cannibalism. Many species rebuild or repair their webs daily, especially at dawn or after rain, though some remain in the same location for longer periods.

In terms of life cycle, females lay eggs in protective silk sacs and may overwinter them. Juveniles disperse by ballooning. Lifespans are usually about one year, with adults dying after breeding. Ecologically, orbweavers help control insect populations and can serve as indicators of biodiversity and ecosystem health.

Notable genera and species include Araneus diadematus (the common cross orbweaver) and Argiope species such as Argiope aurantia (the yellow garden spider) and Argiope bruennichi (the wasp spider).