Neriene digna

Family: Linyphiidae · Class: Arachnida · Order: Araneae

Neriene digna is a small sheet web spider in the family Linyphiidae, subfamily Linyphiinae. Adult females measure approximately 3.5 to 4.0 mm in body length, while males are typically smaller. The species exhibits the characteristic body plan of linyphiid spiders, with a relatively large, rounded abdomen and long, slender legs. Identification requires examination of genital structures, particularly the epigynum in females and palpal morphology in males (BugGuide). Neriene digna occurs along the Pacific Coast of North America, with confirmed records from California, Washington, and likely Oregon. In California, the species has been documented in the San Francisco Bay Area, including observations from San Francisco County (Buena Vista Park) and San Mateo County (Stulsaft Park) (BugGuide). The species appears to have a relatively limited distribution within California, primarily in coastal and near-coastal areas. This species inhabits areas where it can construct sheet webs, typically in vegetation, under structures, or attached to fencing in urban parks and natural areas. Adults have been found on the underside of sheet webs attached to various substrates, including fence undersides in city parks. The species appears to tolerate urban and semi-urban environments, as evidenced by collections from developed park settings in the San Francisco Bay Area (BugGuide). Neriene digna constructs characteristic sheet webs typical of the Linyphiidae family. These horizontal or slightly angled webs serve as both hunting platforms and retreats. The spider waits beneath the web and captures small arthropod prey that fall onto or walk across the web surface. Adult females have been observed during winter and spring months, with documented collections in February and May, suggesting extended adult activity periods. The species likely feeds on small flying insects, springtails, and other tiny arthropods that encounter the web (BugGuide). The conservation status of Neriene digna has not been formally assessed by state or federal agencies. The species does not appear on California Department of Fish and Wildlife special status species lists or federal endangered species listings. Current knowledge of the species' distribution and population trends is limited, based primarily on scattered collection records and photographic observations. The apparent tolerance for urban park environments may provide some resilience against habitat loss, though comprehensive surveys would be needed to assess population stability. Like many small arthropods, this species likely benefits from habitat conservation efforts that maintain diverse vegetation communities and minimize pesticide applications. Scientific documentation for this species remains limited. The information presented here is based on available sources including BugGuide community reports and photographic records. More detailed studies of the species' ecology, distribution limits, and habitat requirements would enhance understanding of its conservation needs and population status throughout its range.

Data from The California Species Project — 14,000+ California species with verified data from CNPS, CDFW, USFWS, and more.