Widow spiders alter web architecture and attractiveness in response to same-sex competition for prey and mates, and predation risk
Andreas Fischer,
Yasasi Fernando,
April Preston
et al.
Abstract:Female-female competition in animals has rarely been studied. Responses of females that compete context-dependently for mates and prey, and seek safety from predators, are ideally studied with web-building spiders. Cobwebs possess unique sections for prey capture and safety, which can be quantified. We worked with Steaoda grossa females because their pheromone is known, and adjustments in response to mate competition could be measured. Females exposed to synthetic sex pheromone adjusted their webs, indicating … Show more
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