Ross's Web Spinner

About Ross's Web Spinner

A reddish-brown web spinner found in tropical Africa that builds silk tunnels on tree bark. It is one of the more brightly colored embiopterans.

How to Identify Ross's Web Spinner

Ross's Web Spinner (Chelicerca rubra) belongs to the order Embioptera, family Chelicercidae. Adults typically measure 8.0-12.0 mm.

Ross's Web Spinner Habitat

Ross's Web Spinner is found in farmland habitats, particularly across Africa. This species has adapted to thrive in its preferred environment, where it can find suitable food sources and shelter.

Ross's Web Spinner Diet and Feeding

Ross's Web Spinner feeds on wood and bark, often boring into timber. Wood-feeding insects contribute to the decomposition of dead trees and nutrient cycling in forest ecosystems.

Where Is Ross's Web Spinner Found?

Ross's Web Spinner can be found in Africa, where it inhabits farmland environments. Its distribution is influenced by climate, food availability, and habitat suitability.

Is Ross's Web Spinner Dangerous?

Ross's Web Spinner is generally harmless to humans. It does not bite or sting and poses no significant health risk. Like most insects, it prefers to avoid human contact and will typically flee rather than confront a perceived threat.

Ross's Web Spinner Role in Nature

Ross's Web Spinner is part of the food web as a primary consumer, feeding on plant material. It serves as an important food source for birds, bats, amphibians, and other insectivores, connecting plant energy to higher trophic levels.

Seasonal Activity