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National Distribution

About this species

Recorded altitude range
0m to 350m

Species text

Distribution
A. aulicus is restricted to southern England. It has been recorded from France, Germany, the Czech Republic and Hungary but is more abundant in southern Europe.

Habitat and ecology
This species is typically found on gorse Ulex on lowland heathland and coastal grasslands. It spins a small web near the end of gorse branches. The spider is often resistent to beating, but easily found by searching the ends of gorse branches. The species has also been swept from low vegetation on post industrial land supporting habitat with heathland characteristics. Males are adult in May and June, females from May to August.

Status
The spider may be abundant on gorse on inland heaths but less abundant on heaths and grasslands in coastal localities.

Threats
The loss of gorse on heathland and coastal grasslands. This species can survive on gorse bushes in remnant heathland along the sides of roads and forestry plantations.

Management and conservation
Maintain populations of Ulex europaeus in suitable habitats within its range.

Text based on Dawson, I.K., Harvey, P.R., Merrett, P. & Russell-Smith, A.R. (in prep.).  References

Adult Season

Habitats

background methodology

Recorded management for locations with Kochiura aulica

Recorded substrate and hydrology for locations with Kochiura aulica

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