TaxonHub
Australian Spiny Orb-Weaver Spider

Australian Spiny Orb-Weaver Spider

Austracantha minax

A distinctive spider species native to Australia characterized by its unique spiny exoskeleton and compact body structure, belonging to the orb-weaver spider family Araneidae.

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Australian Spiny Orb-Weaver Spider
Australian Spiny Orb-Weaver Spider
Australian Spiny Orb-Weaver Spider
Australian Spiny Orb-Weaver Spider
Australian Spiny Orb-Weaver Spider
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Ecology & Habitat

Habitat

Primarily found in coastal and woodland regions of Australia, particularly in subtropical and temperate zones with moderate humidity and vegetation cover

Ecological Role

Plays a crucial role in controlling insect populations, particularly small flying insects, within its native ecosystem through web-based predation

Morphology

  • SKIN COAT Exoskeleton with sharp spines serving as defensive mechanism against predators, typically colored in black and white patterns
  • LIMBS WINGS Eight legs with fine sensory hairs, adapted for precise web construction and rapid movement across intricate web structures
  • HEAD SENSORY Eight eyes arranged in two rows, with advanced visual perception and chemosensory capabilities for detecting prey and navigating environment
  • BODY STRUCTURE Small, compact spider with a distinctive hard, spiny exoskeleton measuring approximately 8-10 mm in body length, featuring prominent dorsal spines
Data Source: TaxonHub Database
Image Credit: Chris Gosby
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Related Species in Araneidae