Florida Argiope
Argiope florida
Classification
- Phylum: Arthropoda
- Subphylum: Chelicerata
- Class: Arachnida
- Order: Araneae
- Infraorder: Araneomorphae
- Family: Araneidae
- Genus: Argiope
- Species: florida
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Argiope florida: /ˈɑrɡiˌoʊpi ˈflɔrɪdə/
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Summary
Argiope florida, or the Florida argiope, is a common orb weaver known for its distinctive abdominal patterns and presence in gardens and natural landscapes in the southeastern United States.
Physical Characteristics
Back half of the abdomen has a pair of longitudinal bands and the sides of the abdomen have tubercles.
Identification Tips
Look for the distinctive abdominal patterns and tubercles that differentiate it from other orb weavers.
Habitat
Restricted to some areas in Southeast United States.
Distribution
North Carolina to Florida, west to Louisiana, including Arizona.
Diet
Insects, primarily those that are caught in its web.
Life Cycle
Undergoes typical arachnid development with egg, juvenile, and adult stages.
Reproduction
Eggs are laid in a sac, which is typically constructed and hidden near the web.
Ecosystem Role
Important predator of garden pests, contributing to ecological balance.
Similar Taxa
- Other species in the genus Argiope.
Misconceptions
Often mistaken for dangerous spiders due to large size, but they are generally harmless to humans.
Tags
- arachnid
- spider
- orb weaver
- Florida argiope
- Argiope florida