Consider-the-Lilies Web Gallery
Spiny-bellied Orbweaver
Most of the spiders around my property are the familiar Orb-weavers, such as the Common Garden varieties, which construct webs divided into radial segments around a circular center. This family of spiders, as a rule, is highly accessible; i.e., easily found throughout my property, they are great subjects: they'll stay still for a second shot, if I want to get a different perspective in another image. (One exception is the Cross Orbweaver, which is shy and difficult to get on "film.")
Although many references seem to favor Spined Micrathena as a common name, I think this interesting Orbweaver is more aptly described by this alternative common name.
(However, as you can see, the spines are actually on the back, not the belly, so the name I prefer is not a completely accurate tag for this unusual spider. But, although not anatomically correct, this nickname does roll nicely off one's tongue.)
The scientific name Micrathena gracilis is a combination word from Greek: mikros = small; akantha = thorn, prickle; gracilis = from the Greek for graceful, slender.)
I see the " small" and I see the "prickles," but I'm not so sure about the "slender."
Spiders come in a broad range of shapes and colors.
I think the smooth curves and pale white shading of the Crab Spider are an interesting contrast to the sharp prickly body and coal-black coloring of the Spiny-bellied Orbweaver.
But, with its five pairs of scary looking prickles, as you can see left, this spider is well-named, in Greek or English.
But like many of the most interesting spiders, this lily while intimidating in a close-up image, is really quite tiny and relatively harmless.
But equipped with such effective armor Spined Micrathena doesn't need much more protection.
Just one tentative nibble of its thorny back is probably more than enough to convince some predatory bird to reconsider having this unpleasant mouthful as a potential snack.
Any thoughts, pro or con? Why not drop me an anonymous note at the Comments page?
OR
Go back to the Main Directory to consider more lilies of the field.