Arrowshaped micrathena, Micrathena sagittata
(Araneae: Araneidae)

This spider receives its name from two characteristic large pointy spikes on the outer edges of its abdomen. The males and females of this species are similar in appearance, with the exception of the spines located on the abdomen (females possess them, males do not). These spiders are brightly colored and the abdomen is triangular in shape, with the widest part at the rear. The topside of the abdomen is mottled yellow and red, and the body is usually a dark reddish-brown.

During autumn, the female deposits an egg sac on leaves located close to its web. The female then dies, and the spiderlings (immatures) hatch in the spring. The egg sac is a fluffy white sphere containing about 90 eggs.

This species is found along the edges of woods, in forests, and brushy areas throughout the eastern United States.

Arrowshaped micrathena prey on leafhoppers, flies, some beetles, bees, wasps and ants.

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Adult arrowshaped micrathena, Micrathena sagittata.
(Photographer: Lyle Buss, University of Florida)

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