Your post had me looking up the reasons for cannibalism in spiders. There doesn't seem to be a consensus on the subject but, as expected, most explanations seem to stem from the evolutionary advantage provided by the "sacrifice." Thanks for providing a learning opportunity!
very interesting, Kris. In this case the male spider wasn't eaten, but did die after mating. A sacrifice, still, I guess, in evolutionary terms it wasn't needed any more.
Oh i didn't know that they are like praying mantis too! It is my first time to hear that, and i also like the comments above by Kris Peterson. Searching is also my first thought but after reading his comment i just let it. However, the next time i see this long legs i will observe mor, thanks.
I find spiders endlessly fascinating. They are such different species to us, one of the major differences that we are social and they live solitary lives.
How sad.
ReplyDeleteWhat a way to go I suppose .... lol
ReplyDeleteI'm with David -- it's sad.
ReplyDeleteYour post had me looking up the reasons for cannibalism in spiders. There doesn't seem to be a consensus on the subject but, as expected, most explanations seem to stem from the evolutionary advantage provided by the "sacrifice." Thanks for providing a learning opportunity!
ReplyDeletevery interesting, Kris. In this case the male spider wasn't eaten, but did die after mating. A sacrifice, still, I guess, in evolutionary terms it wasn't needed any more.
DeleteOh i didn't know that they are like praying mantis too! It is my first time to hear that, and i also like the comments above by Kris Peterson. Searching is also my first thought but after reading his comment i just let it. However, the next time i see this long legs i will observe mor, thanks.
ReplyDeleteI find spiders endlessly fascinating. They are such different species to us, one of the major differences that we are social and they live solitary lives.
Delete