Micrathena sagittata

Micrathena sagittata
Micrathena sagittata
Scientific classification
Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Arthropoda
Class: Arachnida
Order: Araneae
Suborder: Araneomorphae
Family: Araneidae
Genus: Micrathena
Species: M. sagittata
Binomial name
Micrathena sagittata
Walckenaer, 1842

Micrathena sagittata is a species of spider belonging to the family Araneidae. It is found in the eastern United States and throughout Central America.

This is a striking spider with a distinctive arrow-shaped abdomen which is largely yellow, with black depressions above and variable red and black patterning below (see picture). Males are up to 5 millimetres (0.20 in) in length (excluding legs), but females are much larger at around 9 millimetres (0.35 in). The males lack spines.

They leave a hole in the center of their web to assist in motion.

Micrathena sagittata and web, Gadsden Co. Florida.

References

Preston-Mafham, Ken (1998). Spiders: Compact Study Guide and Identifier. Angus Books. ISBN 978-1-904594-93-2.