Large orb-weaving spider native to the Americas, characterized by distinctive yellow and black markings and complex web architecture
Image Gallery
ADSENSE SLOT
Ecology & Habitat
Habitat
Found in open woodlands, gardens, forest edges, and areas with abundant vegetation across North and South America, ranging from southeastern Canada to Argentina
Ecological Role
Critical predator in controlling insect populations, serves as prey for birds and small mammals, contributes to ecosystem biodiversity and food web dynamics
Morphology
SKIN COATExoskeleton with bright yellow and black coloration, providing camouflage and potential warning signals
LIMBS WINGSEight legs with specialized sensory hairs, capable of intricate web construction and rapid movement
HEAD SENSORYEight eyes arranged in two rows, high visual acuity for detecting prey and predators
BODY STRUCTURELarge sexually dimorphic spider, females reach 28-33 mm in body length, males significantly smaller at 8-10 mm
Data Source: TaxonHub Database
Image Credit: Dr. Thomas Liptak
