Dicymbium

Dicymbium is a genus of spiders in the family Linyphiidae, commonly known as dwarf spiders. These small spiders are found in various parts of the world, including Europe, Asia, and North America.

Description:

Dicymbium spiders are typically small, often measuring only a few millimeters in length. They are characterized by their distinctive cymbium, a spoon-shaped structure on the male pedipalp (the leg-like appendages near the mouth). The cymbium plays a role in sperm transfer during mating. Their coloration is usually drab, ranging from brown to black, which helps them blend into their surroundings.

Habitat and Distribution:

These spiders are commonly found in leaf litter, under stones, in moss, and other damp habitats. They prefer environments with high humidity. Their distribution is widespread, but specific species may be limited to certain geographic regions.

Behavior:

Dicymbium spiders are web-building spiders, constructing small, inconspicuous sheet webs in sheltered locations. They feed on small insects and other invertebrates that become trapped in their webs. Like other Linyphiidae, they exhibit ballooning behavior, where they release silk threads into the air to be carried by the wind to new locations.

Taxonomy:

The genus Dicymbium was established by Menge in 1868. The classification of species within the genus has been subject to revisions over time, and the number of recognized species varies depending on the taxonomic source.