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National Distribution

About this species

Recorded altitude range
15m to 100m

Species text

Distribution
The species is almost restricted to western Scotland, but it has also been recorded from the Wyre Forest (Shropshire and Worcestershire) and more recently at two locations on Surrey/Sussex border. It is widespread in western and central Europe, but has not been recorded from Ireland.

Habitat and ecology
N. radiata occurs on bushes about 1 m above ground level, on tall Calluna and pine in ancient woodland and in plantations, and also under overhanging banks in moist shady places. In the Wyre Forest it seems to occur particularly in managed clearings within oak woodland, where a scrub vegetation of birch saplings and Calluna grows (Taylor 1989). Adults are found in June and July.

Status
The spider is apparently uncommon in western Scotland, with few records and an apparent decline. It is widespread and frequent in the Wyre Forest. Possibly it may sometimes be overlooked and confused with the similar but common N. peltata.

Threats
The threats to this species are unknown at present.

Management and conservation
No specific management is likely to be needed other than protection of the natural vegetation structure and topography.

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 Neriene radiata

Recorded substrate and hydrology for locations with Neriene radiata

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