Gasteracantha diardi is a species within the genus Gasteracantha, part of the orb-weaver spider family (Araneidae). Spiders in this genus are commonly known as spiny orb-weavers due to their distinctive hard, spiny abdomens. Gasteracantha diardi, like its congeners, is recognized for its unique and colorful appearance, which serves both as a deterrent to predators and a fascinating subject for human observation. Gasteracantha diardi, like other spiny orb-weavers, features a hard, spiny abdomen, often brightly colored or patterned. These physical characteristics are thought to play a role in predator deterrence and possibly in attracting mates. The spiders construct orb-shaped webs, which are used to capture prey.
Parallel-spined Spiny Orbweaver
Gasteracantha diardi
Classification
KINGDOM
:
Animalia
PHYLUM
:
Arthropoda
CLASS
:
Arachnida
ORDER
:
Araneae
FAMILY
:
Araneidae
GENUS
:
Gasteracantha
SPECIES
:
Gasteracantha diardi
Other Information
Venomous?
Gasteracantha diardi is venomous, using its venom to immobilize prey caught in its web. However, the venom is not considered dangerous to humans, generally causing no more than minor symptoms such as localized pain or itching if a bite occurs.
A Danger to Humans?
These spiders pose minimal danger to humans. They are not aggressive towards humans and tend to avoid encounters. Bites from Gasteracantha diardi are rare and not considered medically significant.
Population Status
Specific data on the population size of Gasteracantha diardi is not widely documented. However, spiny orb-weavers tend to be common in suitable habitats within their distribution range, suggesting potentially stable populations where environmental conditions are favorable.
Parallel-spined Spiny Orbweaver (Gasteracantha diardi), Photo by David Lowenthal
Life Span:
The lifespan of Gasteracantha diardi, like many orb-weaver spiders, typically spans about a year, allowing for the cycle of mating, egg-laying, and the emergence of new spiders within a single season.
Weight and Length:
Spiny orb-weavers are relatively small, with the body size (excluding leg span) not usually exceeding a few centimeters. The spines add to their perceived size but not significantly to their weight.
Distribution:
Gasteracantha diardi is found in parts of Southeast Asia. Its distribution is influenced by habitat suitability, including the presence of vegetation suitable for web construction.
Habits and Lifestyle:
These spiders are diurnal, spending the daylight hours maintaining their webs, catching prey, or sitting in the center of the web. They may rebuild or repair their webs frequently.
Diet and Nutrition:
The diet consists mainly of flying insects that become ensnared in their webs. The web’s structure and placement are crucial for the spider’s success in capturing a variety of flying insects.
Mating Habits:
Mating behavior in Gasteracantha diardi involves the male approaching the female with caution to avoid being mistaken for prey. After mating, the female lays eggs in a silk sac, which she attaches to vegetation or the web itself.