Ground Spiders – Gnaphosidae

This family contains a large number of varied spiders. Many species are dull brown with stocky legs, though some have bright patterns. They have quite distinct spinnerets that are of a uniform thickness (not tapering to a point), and are often positioned well apart, appearing as a two stubby tails from above.  They are wandering hunters , and as the name suggests many species are found at ground level within leaf litter and beneath rocks and logs. They are mildly venomous and regarded as harmless spiders.

Example Australian species

Ground spider – Epicharitis sp

Ground spider – Gnaphosid species

Ground spider – Gnaphosid species