What spiders are there in Germany?

In Germany, a variety of spider species thrives, ranging from the tiny, barely visible money spiders to the larger and more impressive wasp spiders. With around 1,000 documented species in Germany, a fascinating diversity unfolds across different habitats - from damp basements to warm living rooms to colorful meadows.

Among the native species, the cross spider stands out. It is especially known for the cross-shaped mark on its abdomen and is often found in gardens. Its web, a geometric masterpiece, is considered a classic spider web.

The zebra spider, a jumping spider, is characterized by its short, strong jumps with which it surprises its prey. Its striking black-and-white pattern makes it unmistakable.

Also frequently encountered are the various species of the house funnel spider, which prefer to settle in human dwellings. Despite their sometimes impressive size, they are harmless and tend to hide in dark corners.

The water spider, which lives underwater in an air-filled web, is a wonderful example of the adaptability of this genus. It offers a glimpse into the remarkable versatility of living strategies within the spider world.

The wasp spider, easily recognized by its yellow-black striped abdomen, is a newer member of the German spider fauna, whose distribution has expanded due to climatic changes.

Additionally, Germany is home to the rather inconspicuous yet extremely useful house spiders, which consume unwanted insects like flies and mosquitoes.

This brief overview merely sketches a fraction of Germany's spider world and attests to a rich diversity that unfolds quietly but steadily alongside humans.