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National Distribution

About this species

Recorded altitude range
0m to 160m

Species text

Distribution
The species is confined to the extreme south of England. It is widespread in central and southern Europe.

Habitat and ecology
M. romana is found near the south coast, mainly on short calcareous grassland, on cliff-tops, in warm sunny situations. It is an ant-mimic, often found in company with ants, running in hot sunshine. Both sexes are adult from May to July.

Status
The spider is common in some places on hot hillsides near the coast, but very local, and not found more than a few miles inland. It is recorded from seven locations since 1992 but records suggest a substantial decline since the 1970s. Area of occupancy has declined from 10 hectads before 1992 to five hectads since that date.

Threats
There is probably little threat from agriculture in most of its coastal grassland sites, as it occurs mainly in stony areas or on steep slopes which are unsuitable for cultivation. Public pressure could possibly be a threat in some areas.

Management and conservation
Maintain open grassland and prevent growth of scrub, but this is probably not a problem at most sites.

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 Micaria albovittata

Recorded substrate and hydrology for locations with Micaria albovittata

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