Questions and Answers
Which adaptations do spiders use to catch prey?
What does the crab spider species (Epicadus heterogaster) mimic to attract prey?
A dainty white flower
The average prey attraction rate is higher when the spider is present than when it is removed.
True
What do bolas spiders produce to attract male moths?
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The _____ of webs affects spider hunting strategies.
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What are some characteristics of nocturnal web-building spiders?
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Study Notes
Adaptations of Spiders
- Spiders have been evolving for about 400 million years to increase their survivability.
- They have developed various adaptations, including the use of silk, to diversify as plant and insect life did.
Looks as a Lure
- The crab spider species (Epicadus heterogaster) looks like a dainty white flower to lure prey.
- Its abdomen glitters, reflecting the sun, to catch the attention of bees and flies.
Mimicry
- The spider (Phrynarachne decipiens) mimics bird droppings to draw in prey in Malaysia.
- It lures unsuspecting flies looking to use it as a source of food or lay their eggs in the poop.
Scent as a Lure
- Bolas spiders (genus Mastophora) prey on moths by producing pheromones made by female moths looking to mate.
- Adult female bolas spiders reel in male moths with a sticky clump of specialized silk.
Web Design and Decoration
- Spider web design and decoration attract prey.
- Patterns like thick white silk bands or reflective elements make webs more appealing to insects.
Visual Signal of Webs
- Nocturnal web-building spiders use body coloration and the visual signal of webs to attract prey at night.
- Vibrant colors are used to attract prey at night.
Evolutionary Driving Forces
- The evolutionary driving forces behind the various architectures of spider webs have been recognized as pressure from the foraging environment and predators.
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Description
Learn about the clever ways spiders lure in their prey. This quiz covers the introduction to spiders and their prey capture methods.
