Araneus Diadematus
When I first started running insectpod, I was worried that we’d be overrun with pictures of Phidippus audax, one of the most common (and photogenic) spiders. Tiogshi Laj sends in our third look at Araneus diadematus, however, so it looks like the popularity contest is on!
Tiogshi actually sent in several pictures of this spider, the first of which was of her hanging in her web. Apparently the camera came too close, however, and she jumped out to scuttle away to freedom. I love how this spider’s coloration, quite striking when viewed hanging in free space, becomes very successful camouflage on an autumnal forest floor.
It is clear that the diademati are photogenic as well. I’m still more of a Phidippus man myself, but I’m open to other viewpoints. What do you like more, and why? Garden spiders, jumping spiders, or perhaps a different kind altogether?
(Note: I have several friends who would ask if they could vote for “dead” as their preferred spider type. For the sake of argument let’s confine ourselves to species; there’s no call for vitalist remarks like that.)
Kazriko said,
January 25, 2008 @ 1:23 pm
I like Araneus Gemmiodes myself. They’re pretty common around here. They’ll stay entirely still around people trying to avoid attention. I kept thinking they were all dead up here, until I saw one eating something that wandered onto their web. Add to that the little tripwire they have to their webs…
If I had a better camera, I’d take some pictures of them next year.
Scott said,
January 25, 2008 @ 1:26 pm
Garden spiders. I’ve got a picture of a BEAUTIFUL one somewhere. I’ll see if I can dig it up.
JVidal-Riggs said,
January 26, 2008 @ 11:35 am
Oooh… she IS pretty!
But, my vote still goes to Nephila clavipes–she and I just have so much history together!
Kit said,
January 26, 2008 @ 3:22 pm
Spiders are great, full stop. Round here I see mostly Tegenaria and Araneus diadematus, though. The only Salticidae I’ve seen are the tiny Zebras.