Orestiidae

Orestiidae is a family of small to medium-sized spiders, belonging to the superfamily Araneoidea. They are found in various habitats across the world, including forests, grasslands, and even urban areas. The family is characterized by their relatively small size, with most species measuring between 2-5 millimeters in length. Orestiid spiders are known for their distinctive body shape, with a long, slender abdomen and relatively short legs.

The family Orestiidae was first described by the French arachnologist Eugène Simon in 1898. It is currently divided into two subfamilies: Orestiinae and Stethorinae. The Orestiinae subfamily is the larger of the two, containing around 150 species, while the Stethorinae subfamily is much smaller, with only about 20 species.

Orestiid spiders are generally considered to be harmless to humans, as they are not known to bite or cause any significant harm. However, like all spiders, they can deliver a venomous bite if provoked. Their venom is not typically dangerous to humans, but it can cause localized pain and swelling at the site of the bite.

The diet of orestiid spiders consists primarily of small insects, such as flies, beetles, and other arthropods. They are active predators, using their long, slender legs to quickly capture and subdue their prey. Once captured, the spider injects venom into the prey, which helps to immobilize it and facilitate digestion.

Orestiid spiders are an important part of the ecosystem, helping to control populations of small insects and contributing to the overall health of their habitats. Despite their small size, they play a crucial role in maintaining the balance of nature.