Cheiracanthium mordax
Family: Miturgidae ID: Koch, 1866
Habitat and Biology
The sac spider is another vagrant hunter. It makes a silken
retreat or sac in which it rests during the day and may be used for moulting
and egg laying. In nature, the spider's sac occurs under the bark of trees or
amongst foliage. In buildings, the spider's sac is built behind cupboards, pictures
etc. The egg mass is deposited in the sac, encased in silk and guarded by the
female. The lifespan is not known but is unlikely to exceed two years.
Colour
Male: Similar to female but often slightly darker overall.
Female: Cephalothorax and legs pale brown, abdomen
cream with darker longitudinal stripe on upperside.
Form
Small, stout-bodied spiders with slender legs; male has remarkably
enlarged jaws giving it a rather unusual appearance.
Body Length
Male: 9mm
Female: 10mm
Web type
Does not build a web.
Bite
The bite of this spider may cause general symptoms including
local pain and ulceration, nausea, faintness and headache.