Hyptiotes

Hyptiotes is a genus of spiders belonging to the family Uloboridae, also known as cribellate orb weavers. They are distinguished from other orb-weavers by their unique method of prey capture. Unlike most orb-weavers that use sticky silk to trap insects, Hyptiotes spiders create a small, triangular web made of cribellate silk. This silk is not inherently sticky, but rather has a fuzzy, wool-like texture.

Hyptiotes spiders actively control the tension of their web. They sit at the apex of the triangle, holding onto a thread connected to the web with all eight legs. When an insect lands on the web, the spider rapidly releases the tension, causing the web to snap forward and engulf the prey. This sudden movement entangles the insect in the fuzzy cribellate silk, preventing its escape. The spider then quickly wraps the captured prey in more silk before consuming it.

These spiders are generally small and inconspicuous, often blending in with the surrounding vegetation. They are found in various habitats worldwide, including forests, gardens, and grasslands.