Argiope blanda
Classification
- Phylum: Arthropoda
- Subphylum: Chelicerata
- Class: Arachnida
- Order: Araneae
- Infraorder: Araneomorphae
- Family: Araneidae
- Genus: Argiope
- Species: blanda
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Argiope blanda: /ˈarɡi.oʊp ˈblændə/
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Images
Summary
Argiope blanda is an orb-weaving spider in the Araneidae family, distributed from southern Texas to Costa Rica, identifiable by its unique abdominal features.
Physical Characteristics
Very similar to Argiope argentata but lacks the rounded 'Mickey Mouse ear' shaped protrusions on the anterior of the abdomen. The ventral markings are different from those of A. argentata.
Identification Tips
Look for the absence of the rounded ear-like protrusions on the abdomen to differentiate from Argiope argentata.
Habitat
Typically found in open areas where plants provide support for their webs, ranging from grassy fields to gardens.
Distribution
Ranging from southernmost Texas to Costa Rica.
Diet
Primarily feeds on flying insects which get caught in its web.
Life Cycle
The life cycle includes egg, juvenile, and adult stages with behaviors typical of orb weavers.
Reproduction
Females lay eggs in a silken sac, which they often guard until the young emerge.
Ecosystem Role
Plays a role in controlling insect populations and is involved in the food web.
Collecting Methods
- Sweep netting
- Hand collection
Preservation Methods
- Ethanol fixation
- Freezing
- Drying
Similar Taxa
Tags
- spider
- Argiope
- orb weaver
- Araneidae
- biodiversity