Argiope bruennichi
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 Argiope bruennichi
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| Argiope bruennichi (Scopoli, 1772) |
Argiope bruennichi, or the wasp spider, is a species of orb-web spider distributed throughout central Europe, north Africa and parts of Asia. Like other members of the genus Argiope, (including St Andrew's Cross spiders), it shows striking yellow and black markings on its abdomen.
The spider builds a spiral orb web at dawn or dusk, commonly in long grass a little above ground level, taking it approximately an hour. The prominent zigzag shape called the stabilimentum, or web decoration, featured at the centre of the orb is of uncertain function, though it may be to attract insects.
The spider paralyses its prey, mostly grasshoppers, flies and bees, by injecting it with venom.
During Summer 2006, research was carried out in the UK to find that there has been an influx of these spiders to the UK. The colour is still similar, although the yellow stripes are a bit more cream coloured. [citation needed]
[edit] External links
- Argiope bruennichi. Fauna Europaea (2004). Retrieved on 2006-05-24.
