Leaf-curler

Fact Box Species: Phonognatha graeffei (QM) Family: Araneidae (formerly Tetragnathidae) Body length: female: 12 mm male: 6 mm Habitat: This spider's web is not a full circle. A curled up dry leaf is suspended by supporting threads and the fan-like web radiates out from this leaf, in which the spider hides with only its legs visible Toxicity: Unknown; small but otherwise potentially hazardous to humans

In its retreat Its web The male Another female

This is a very common spider thoughout South-East Queensland and is easily recognised because of its habit of waiting in its leafy retreat with only the tips of its legs showing. The bright yellow pattern on the upper surface of the abdomen is distinctive.

Spider(s) with a very similar appearance: Araneus dimidiatus and Deliochus zelivira.