spreiders

Spreiders are a fictional group of araneomorph spiders described in speculative biology and worldbuilding. They are best known for their distinctive silk-spreading behavior, which forms broad, irregular networks across leaf litter and low vegetation to intercept prey.

In taxonomy, spreiders are placed in the family Spreidaridae, within the order Araneae. Adults range in size from about 5 to 12 millimeters in body length, and coloration is variable, often with iridescent scales on the carapace and a patterned abdomen. They have long, agile legs suited to navigating uneven ground and dense ground cover.

Habitat and distribution: Spreiders are depicted as inhabiting temperate forests and grasslands in fictional regions such as the continent of Valara. They favor moist microhabitats and rely on camouflage to approach prey. Their distribution in stories or worldbuilding settings illustrates diverse ecological niches.

Web and foraging behavior: Spreiders deploy a two-tier silk system. A low ground-level mat secures materials on the forest floor, while a network of sparse radiating threads acts as a lure and trap. When insects pass, the silk and substrate shift, triggering capture. They are described as primarily ambush predators that can adjust silk deposition in response to prey density.

Reproduction and life cycle: Mating is described as occurring in spring; females guard egg sacs attached to the silk mats. Nymphs molt through several instars and reach adulthood within one to two years in temperate climates. Lifespan is commonly under three years.

Ecology and human interactions: Spreiders are non-venomous to humans in the fictional context and are considered beneficial for pest control. They are often used in worldbuilding to illustrate forest-floor predator–prey dynamics.