Myrmarachne melanocephala, commonly referred to as the Bicolor Ant Mimick Jumping Spider, is a fascinating species known for its remarkable mimicry of ants. This adaptation not only helps it evade predators but also allows it to get close to its prey. Part of the Salticidae family, these spiders are known for their excellent vision, agility, and distinctive hunting strategies. Myrmarachne melanocephala is distinguished by its elongated body and limbs, and a coloration that closely resembles that of ants, particularly in its black head and thorax, which mimic the ant’s head and body. This species uses visual mimicry as well as behavioral mimicry to integrate into ant colonies or travel among ants without being detected.
Bicolor Ant Mimick Jumping Spider
Myrmarachne melanocephala
Classification
KINGDOM
:
Animalia
PHYLUM
:
Arthropoda
CLASS
:
Arachnida
ORDER
:
Araneae
FAMILY
:
Salticidae
GENUS
:
Myrmarachne
SPECIES
:
Myrmarachne melanocephala
Other Information
Venomous?
Like all jumping spiders, Myrmarachne melanocephala is venomous, utilizing its venom to immobilize its prey. However, its venom is not harmful to humans, typically causing no more than minor symptoms such as localized pain or itching if a bite occurs.
A Danger to Humans?
There is minimal danger to humans from Myrmarachne melanocephala. These spiders are not aggressive towards humans and tend to avoid encounters. Bites are rare and not considered medically significant.
Population Status
Specific data on the population size of Myrmarachne melanocephala is not widely documented, but the species is known to be relatively common in suitable habitats.
Bicolor Ant Mimick Jumping Spider (Myrmarachne melanocephala), Photo by David Lowenthal
Life Span:
The lifespan of Myrmarachne melanocephala, as with many jumping spiders, can vary but generally spans about 1-2 years, encompassing the period from egg to adult spider.
Weight and Length:
Myrmarachne melanocephala is a small spider, with body lengths typically not exceeding a few millimeters. Males and females may vary slightly in size, with males often being slimmer and slightly smaller.
Distribution:
Myrmarachne melanocephala is widely distributed in warmer climates. Originally described in regions like Africa and Asia, their mimicry allows them to thrive in environments where ants— their models— are abundant.
Habits and Lifestyle:
This species is diurnal, active during the day when it hunts. It mimics ant movements and even interacts with ants, using its agility to pounce on prey while avoiding detection.
Diet and Nutrition:
The diet of Myrmarachne melanocephala primarily consists of small insects. Their ant-mimicking behavior allows them to hunt effectively by blending in with ant trails and colonies, where they can ambush prey.
Mating Habits:
Mating in Myrmarachne melanocephala involves complex courtship behaviors, with males performing visual displays to attract females. These displays are crucial for recognition among species, ensuring that the mimicry used for survival does not interfere with their ability to find and mate with the correct species.