Spider in Resin

This spider is perhaps most famous for its debut as the main antagonist species in the movie Eight Legged Freaks. Like many members of the genus Argiope, it is yellow with black marking on its abdomen that give it the name ‘wasp spider. It builds a spiral orb web each day at dawn or dusk, usually in long grass just above ground level. In making its web it weaves a striking zigzag pattern at the center. Scientists are unsure of the function of these litter masterpieces, but some believe that they attract insect prey. Males of this species are much smaller than females. They will often wait in or near the female's web, waiting for her to complete her final molt. At this point, her jaws are still soft and the male can mate with her without the danger of being eaten.