We hope that each of you, our readers, will enjoy and appreciate this article we present about these 7 Awesome Invertebrates of Australia. It was certainly our pleasure to gather the information for you. May it provide you with both education and increased awareness.
Certainly, these few species listed herein represent only a portion of the wonders found in this amazing region. It’s our belief, though, that they serve as excellent representations of the wonders found here. Check out some of our other articles for similar marvels.
Scorpion-Tailed Spider
Scorpion-Tailed Spider Facts
- Leading off this article about 7 Awesome Invertebrates of Australia comes the first of three arachnids, the aptly-named Scorpion-Tailed Spider.
- The attention-grabbing term applied to it fits this amazing arthropod. Although riveting, it’s not the only name applied to it, though. That’s because it’s also known by such terms as scorpion orb weaver and simply the tailed spider.
- Its official scientific name, meanwhile, remains far more difficult to pronounce. That’s because arachnologists know it as the Arachnua higginsi. Regardless of which term one applies to it though, it’s an incredible species, and remarkably evolved.
- The highly respected German entomologist and arachnologist, Ludwig Carl Christian Koch, made the first official notice of it. That original recognition of the arachnid as a separate and distinct species took place due to his efforts in the year 1872.
- Fortunately, the amazing Scorpion-Tailed Spider appears to be maintaining a population base that’s both sufficient and stable. This further seems to hold true throughout the entirety of its range. The IUCN, therefore, has no listing for the animal.
- This fascinating species nevertheless faces the same potential threats that most, if not all, living things on earth now do. These come in many forms, of course. Chief among these would be habitat loss and the ongoing effects of climate change.
Scorpion-Tailed Spider Physical Description
The magnificent Scorpion-Tailed Spider actually deserves note for two different physical reasons. The first, somewhat surprisingly, involves its simple physical size. That’s due to the fact that this amazing arachnid evolved an impressive degree of sexual dimorphism.
More specifically, in its particular case, the females develop as significantly larger in terms of body size. The length of the body of the female averages about 0.63 in (16 mm). That of the tiny male, however, only reaches an average length of roughly 0.08 in (2 mm).
The astonishing tail, though, remains its most distinctive physical attribute. This also represents another form of gender-based physical difference. That’s because only the females develop this body part. This appendage increases in size with each molting.
Though different in terms of size and the unique appendage, the two genders display identical patterns of color. This varies extensively among adult individuals, however. Typically, though, this ranges from as light as beige to as dark as shades of brown and black.
Another color pattern further appears among a small percentage of adults. That’s the presence of a bright red or yellow patch on the abdomen. Juveniles of the impressive Scorpion-Tailed Spider, however, frequently display even brighter colors than adults.
- Kingdom: Animalia
- Phylum: Arthropoda
- Class: Arachnida
- Order: Araneae
- Family: Araneidae
- Genus: Arachnura
- Species: A. higginsi
Scorpion-Tailed Spider Distribution, Habitat, and Ecology
The fascinating arachnid known as the Scorpion-Tailed Spider has a very specific habitat range. That’s because it evolved as native to only a limited portion of the globe. It’s also a region well known for the astounding diversity of life, including spiders.
This holds true due to the fact that it evolved as endemic to a portion of the continent of Australia. Even within that country, though, its range remains restricted. In point of fact, it’s only known to live in the southern continental sections, and Tasmania.
On the other hand, within that area it appears to be widespread. That’s due to the fact that it displays a remarkable versatility in terms of its habitat preferences. The natural marvel seems comfortable in virtually any form of bushland, even gardens on occasion.
The web of this particular arachnid typically appears built close to the ground. Surprisingly, this appears in either a vertical, angled, or even horizontal position. During the day, the spider sits patiently in or near the center of the web. Here, it patiently awaits its prey.
Most commonly, the prey of the Scorpion-Tailed Spider consists of small insects, like most of its kin. The tail, though distinctive, remains harmless, and plays no role in hunting. It does, however, move it in a manner similar to a scorpion, as a deterrent to predators.
African Monarch
African Monarch Facts
- Next up among our choices for inclusion in this listing of 7 Awesome Invertebrates of Australia we present one whose name might surprise you, the African Monarch.
- This magnificent Lepidoptera most frequently goes by the descriptive, as well as somewhat deceptively informative, common name. Yet, it also has several alternate names. These include the African queen, and, surprisingly, the plain tiger.
- Scientific professionals, however, such as researchers, typically refer to the invertebrate by its official name. That’s somewhat difficult to pronounce, though, for non-professionals. That’s because it bears the technical moniker of Danaus chrysippus.
- It further received that name due to the efforts of the renowned Swedish researcher, Carl Linnaeus. He accomplished the first formal recognition of the insect as a separate and distinct species. This scientifically noteworthy event occurred in the year 1758.
- Regardless of the term one chooses to use when referring to it, though, it’s a remarkable beauty. A total of three known subspecies also exist. Intriguingly, these share the same range of habitation. It’s truly a marvelous work of Nature and evolution.
- The stunning African Monarch also stands out for another reason. That’s because, unlike many species, it appears to be maintaining a population base that’s both sizeable and stable. This trend further seems to hold true throughout the entirety of its range.
- The IUCN, therefore, presently lists the Arthropod as Least Concern on its Red List. The creature nevertheless faces potential threats to its existence. Habitat loss due to human expansion qualifies as one. Its greatest danger, though, is likely climate change.
African Monarch Physical Description
The remarkable African Monarch impresses those who encounter it with its attributes. Sheer physical size, however, isn’t among the qualities on that particular list. That’s due to the fact that, regardless of its other notable aspects, it ranks as a medium-sized butterfly.
Mature adults attain an average wingspan measuring between 2.8 – 3.1 in (7 – 8 cm). Like many Arthropods, it also displays a slight degree of the physiological characteristic of sexual dimorphism. In its case, though, this trait does not manifest in terms of sheer size.
Males of this insect develop pronounced scent glands, which the female lacks entirely. With the exception of this physical structure, the genders appear virtually indistinguishable. The bodies of both genders also display a basic black shade, with many white spots.
The difference in overall appearance is further augmented, though, by the exact patterns of color. That’s due to the fact that precise combinations vary between individuals, sometimes quite significantly. Certain basic patterns of coloration do remain, however.
Both the upper and lower wings of the African Monarch display a predominantly bright orange hue. On the upperside, the tips of the forewing manifest a black border. White spots also appear there. The hindwing displays the black border, but without the spots.
The underside of the wings also presents a principally orange shade. Here, though, it’s a somewhat lighter shade. The same black border appears, but both wings also have white spots there. The hindwing also presents three small black spots around a central wing cell.
- Kingdom: Animalia
- Phylum: Arthropoda
- Class: Insecta
- Order: Lepidoptera
- Family: Nymphalidae
- Genus: Danaus
- Species: D. chrysippus
African Monarch Distribution, Habitat, and Ecology
Fortunately, for those who appreciate Nature, the dazzling African Monarch apparently evolved as native to a relatively broad swathe of the globe. As the common name itself clearly indicates, this zone of habitation includes virtually the entire continent of Africa.
Its presence isn’t restricted solely to that region of the world, however. That’s because it also appears in an impressive array of other areas. This includes much of Asia, including all of the Indian subcontinent. The insect also appears in Australia, and some Pacific islands!
It further enhances its survival capability by displaying an impressive adaptability in regards to its precise habitat. It does nonetheless demonstrate a preference for one specific type of habitat. The intrepid insect demonstrates a strong fondness for arid, open areas.
Yet, due to its flexibility in terms of where it lives, it also makes appearances in a wide varity of habitats. These include such areas as mountains, deciduous forests, and even deserts and gardens. It seems comfortable at altitudes ranging from sea level to 4,900 ft (1,494 m).
As often happens in Nature, the delicate beauty of the African Monarch conceals a rather surprising secret. Despite its physical fragility, it has few natural predators. That’s due to the fact that its tiny body contains high levels of toxic compounds, called cardenolides.
These originate with its diet. The adults consume nectar from various local flowering plants. The larval form, however, feeds mainly on several plants, but most especially Milkweed. The toxins then accumulate in its body, making it unpalatable to most predators.
Hibiscus Harlequin Bug
Hibiscus Harlequin Bug Facts
- The third species chosen to appear in this compilation of 7 Awesome Invertebrtes of Australia bears the slightly cumbersome name of the Hibiscus Harlequin Bug.
- This brilliantly colored Arthropod most frequently goes by the intriguing, though informative, common name due to its colorful appearance. It also has another, less often used, general name. That’s the equally accurate term of the cotton harlequin bug.
- Among scientific professionals, such as researchers, however, the insect’s typically referred to by its official scientific name. That’s an extremely hard to pronounce term, though. That’s because it bears the official moniker of the Tectocoris diophthalmus.
- There’s a story to the naming of this marvel, however. The creature further received that appellation at the hands of the respected Swedish naturalist, Carl Peter Thunberg. This scientifically noteworthy deed he further accomplished in the year 1783.
- Sometimes considered an apostle of Carl Linnaeus, he made the first acknowledgment of it as a separate and distinct species. Yet, regardless of which term one chooses to employ for the species, it represents the only known member of its genus.
- Fortunately for the Hibiscus Harlequin Bug, it appears to be maintaining a population base that’s both stable and sufficient. This stability further seems to hold true throughout its range. The IUCN, therefore, has no current listing for it on its Red List.
- This product of evolution nonetheless faces several threats to its existence. It’s considered a pest in some regions, and faces active efforts at controlling its population. Like most other species around the world, it also faces the danger of climate change.
Hibiscus Harlequin Bug Physical Description
It’s worth noting that the magnificent Hibiscus Harlequin Bug fully merits its reputation for colorfulness regardless of physical size. That’s because it remains only an average-sized member of its Order. Nature, however, holds no regard for such distinctions.
Although the intriguing insect does display the physiological characteristic of sexual dimorphism, it does not do so in terms of size. Individuals of both genders, therefore attain the same average overall body length. That only equals roughly 0.8 in (2 cm), though.
That physical form of this impressive member of the Hemiptera Order further develops what some call a shield shape. This consists of a rounded, somewhat convex pattern of development. The colors presented also generally tend to display a metallic sheen.
It’s in those color patterns presented that the Hibiscus Harlequin Bug displays the gender-based differences. Adult female specimens show a primarily orange background, though spotted with blue. Males, though, show mostly blue, with spots of red and orange.
Its head, however, develops as comparatively elongated in design. This holds especially true compared to certain other insects. It also has two long, slender antennae, for sensing. Its six multi-jointed legs further possess a thin covering of short, bristly hairs along their length.
- Kingdom: Animalia
- Phylum: Arthropoda
- Class: Insecta
- Order: Hemiptera
- Family: Scutelleridae
- Genus: Tectocoris
- Species: T. diophthalmus
Hibiscus Harlequin Bug Distribution, Habitat, and Ecology
The visually appealing Hibiscus Harlequin Bug evolved as native to a general region of the world already renowned for its incredible forms of life. That zone of habitation principally includes the continent of Australia. Even there, though, it only appears in the east.
The intrepid small animal also evolved as endemic to a few other tiny areas, however. More precisely, the other regions in which it appears include New Guinea and several scattered Pacific Islands. There, though, the insect manifests smaller population groupings.
In all regions in which it does make an appearance, however, it displays an impresive adaptability in its habitat preferences. That’s because it inhabits widely different ecosystems. These include rainforests, open forests, coastal dunes, and even private gardens.
It further displays little or no preference for altitudes, though none of the regions in which it lives in possess any areas of significant elevation. Population concentrations, furthermore, seem to be approximately equally divided between sea level elevations and up.
It’s the feeding habits of the gorgeous Hibiscus Harlequin Bug, though, that garner the most attention from most people aware of it. That’s due to the fact that the amazing species feeds on the sap of several species. It does this by piercing the stems of young plants.
The creature also displays a strong preference in the plants it feeds on. These mainly include species of hibisucs in the Malvaceae family, thus the name. Yet it also consumes the sap of a few other species, including culitvated cotton, and bottlebrush, among others.
Black Widow
Black Widow Facts
- The fourth entry into this article about 7 Awesome Invertebrates of Australia is also the second of the arachnids included, the infamous Black Widow.
- Perhaps most notably for most individuals, this amazing invertebrate represents a very dangerous variety of spider. Placed in the Latrodectus genus, many of these reclusive arachnids are also known to some people simply as widow spiders.
- Experts also currently list 32 known species in this genus, spread throughout much of the world. The three species endemic to North America remain the most commonly known, though. Each of these arachnids shares many physical traits.
- The common name for these dangerous invertebrates derives from the high prevalence of sexual cannibalism in the Black Widow. After mating the larger female commonly, though not always, kills and then feeds on the smaller male.
- The toxin of its bite additionally remains considered by most experts to be especially dangerous. The invertebrate earns this distinction due to the presence of the neurotoxin latrotoxin. This represents an especially dangerous type of venom.
- Only the bite of the female typically presents any danger to humans, however. That’s because she generally has far larger venom glands than her much smaller male counterpart. Despite its reputation, though, few bites actually result in fatalities.
- Presently, the majority of species grouped under this common name continue to have stable populations. The IUCN, therefore, does not list them on its Red List. These amazing spiders nevertheless face the same threat from climate change as we all do.
Black Widow Physical Description
Not surprisingly, the various species of Black Widow attain similar physical sizes. However, this remarkable arachnid typically displays a significant amount of sexual dimorphism. This physiological characteristic manifests itself in terms of both color patterns and size.
That’s partly because the female attains an average length of about 1.4 in (3.5 cm), whereas the male stays much smaller. He most commonly only reaches an average length of roughly 0.7 in (1.75 cm). The males also do not display the characteristic red hourglass.
Color patterns also vary relatively significantly between the various forms. All members of this genus, however, appear predominantly black in color. The females of each species, though, all display a very prominent red hourglass shape on their abdomens.
- Kingdom: Animalia
- Phylum: Arthropoda
- Class: Arachnida
- Order: Araneae
- Family: Theridiidae
- Genus: Latrodectus
Black Widow Distribution, Habitat, and Ecology
The three species of Black Widow that evolved as native to North America remain the best known of the varieties. The incredible genus also thrives in many other areas of the world, though. In fact, the various species inhabit every continent of the world, except Antarctica.
Quite understandably, given its nearly global distribution, habitat types vary widely. Nevertheless, members of the genus most commonly live in temperate and tropical climates. A few of them, though, even live in extremely arid regions of the world.
Individuals usually build their webs in locations such as around rubble, small trees and bushes, in the wild. But, when found inside of human habitations, webs usually appear in isolated areas, such as attics and garages. This fortunately makes encounters rare.
When a human gets bitten, the venom of a Black Widow commonly causes a condition known as latrodectism. Experiences include profuse sweating, vomiting, muscle rigidity, and extreme pain. These symptoms typically persist for 3-6 days, but can last longer.
All currently known members of this genus hunt as ambush predators, laying in wait in the web. It feeds opportunistically, making a meal of any small creature caught in its web. Its diet, however, typically consists of mosquitoes, grasshoppers, beetles, and such.
Giant Wood Moth
Giant Wood Moth Facts
- Next up in this compilation of 7 Awesome Invertebrate of Australia it’s our pleasure to present the fabulous Giant Wood Moth.
- This dazzling giant example of Lepidoptera most frequently goes by the perfectly apt common name that we are using. In fact, for the moment, though, this magnificent creation of the efforts of Nature and evolution has no other accepted common name.
- Scientific professionals, however, typically refer to this marvelous invertebrate by its formal scientific name. That, though, represents a bit more of a challenge to pronounce. That’s because the scientific name for the creature is that of Endoxyla cinereus.
- The Prussian-born entomologist, Johann Gottlieb Otto Tepper made the first known recognition of it as a separate and distinct species. This scientifically noteworthy accomplishment further occurred in 1890. At that time, though, he name it differently.
- Regardless of which term one employs when referring to it, though, it represents an awesome sight to behold. That holds true due to its sheer mass. While the Giant Atlas Moth is the largest moth in wingspan, this insect remains the heaviest of its kind.
- Humans rarely see the Giant Wood Moth, but evidence indicates it has a sufficient and stable population base. This also seems to hold true throughout the entirety of its native range. The IUCN, therefore, presently has no listing for it on its Red List.
- The insect nevertheless must be considered to be facing several threats to its existence. Habitat loss due to human expansion remains a threat to it. Its greatest danger, though, perhaps comes in the form of ongoing climate change, like numerous other species.
Giant Wood Moth Physical Description
The very name of the Giant Wood Moth gives a good indication of its most noteworthy physical characteristic. That notable trait, however, only applies to roughly half the population. That’s because this species exhibits a strong degree of seuxal dimorphism.
More specifically, the females attain roughly twice the size of their male counterparts. The larger females reach an impressive average wingspan measuring approximately 9.06 in (23 cm). The wingspan of the males averages barely half of that, in most specimens.
Likewise, the sheer mass of the females also averages roughly twice that of the smaller males of the species. Some females, in point of fact, attain a measured mass of as much as 1.06 oz (30 g)! Although that may not sound like much to many people, for a moth it’s huge.
Otherwise, however, the two genders remain virtually identical in outward appearance. Both sexes display the same overall pattern of coloring. The forweings typically show a light or dark gray. The hindwings, meanwhile, usually display a light or medium brown.
The body of the Giant Wood Moth, however, presents a striking visual pattern. This typically displays a dark brown background, with thin, light brown stripes appearing across the body horizontally. The rear tip of the body, though, also generally presents as light brown.
- Kingdom: Animalia
- Phylum: Arthropoda
- Class: Insecta
- Order: Lepidoptera
- Family: Cossidae
- Genus: Endoxyla
- Species: E. cinereus
Giant Wood Moth Distribution, Habitat, and Ecology
The fabuous Giant Wood Moth evolved as native to a very limited region of the world. For the moment, furthermore, no evidence exists that it ever appeared anywhere else. The region of the world where it appears, however, will likely come as no surprise.
That’s due to the fact that this arthropod evolved as mainly endemic to the continent of Australia. Even there, though, the wondrous invertebrate only inhabits a few dozen, widely scattered areas of the vast continent, including Queensland, and New South Wales.
A small population, however, also appears on the island of New Zealand. In each of the lamentably few areas in which it appears, though, it displays decided preferences for its choice of habitat type. It only appears in regions containing quantities of eucalyptus trees.
The vast majority of individuals, in fact, spend their entire lives on and around individual trees! These trees serve as home to the larvae, after the eggs laid on the trees hatch. Once these have done so, the larvae quickly bore into the bark of the host tree.
There, furthermore, the larvae spend up to an entire year burrowing tunnels through the bark, feeding. These tunnels tend to enlarge as they progress, as the larvae do. Once they reach the caterpillar stage, they emerge, and lower themselves to the ground.
There, the caterpillar form of the Giant Wood Moth feeds on the roots of nearby plants. Once they attain adulthood, however, they only live a few more days. Indivduals also do not feed once they reach adulthood. Matue females lay their eggs, and die soon after.
Asian Weaver Ant
Asian Weaver Ant Facts
- This member of these 7 Awesome Invertebrates of Australia is the partially deceptively-named Hymenoptera known as the Asian Weaver Ant.
- This small, but distinctively evolved, invertebrate most frequently goes by the relatively simple common name listed here. However, like many creatures around the world, it’s also known by other, if less regularly used, alternate monikers.
- In its case, though, it possesses a surprisingly large number of such alternative names. These include similar terms, such as the green ant, the green tree ant, and the weaver ant. Yet, it’s also known by such disparate terms as semut rangrang and orange gaster.
- Meanwhile, professionals, such as researchers, usually refer to it by its official, scientific name. That, however, is a particularly difficult term for laymen to pronounce. That’s because the insect bears the technical name of the Oecophylla smaragdina.
- It further received this tongue-twisting appellation due to the work of Johan Christian Fabricius. The renowned Danish zoologist made the first official recognition of it as a separate and distinct species. This scientifically noteworthy event occurred in 1775.
- Fortunately, the Asian Weaver Ant appears to be maintaining a population base that’s both sizeable and sufficient. This also seems to hold true throughout the entirety of its natural range. The IUCN, therefore, presently has no listing for it on its Red List.
- The intriguing Arthropod nevertheless could be considered to be facing several potential threats to its existence. Habitat loss due to human expansion represents a possible danger. Its greates threat, though, likely comes from ongoing climate change.
Asian Weaver Ant Physical Description
The tantalizing Asian Weaver Ant easily fascinates those fortunate enough to encounter it. While this holds true due to different reasons, sheer size isn’t among them. That’s because, except for the queens, it remains a smewhat small member of its particular Order.
Like most of its kindred, the physiological characteristic of sexual dimorphism applies, but in a manner different than in many creatures. This applies due to the existence of the caste system. The vast majority of the members of a colony are workers, nearly all female.
The few males present within the teeming numbers of their nest exist as drones. Unlike the numerous workers, these few individuals possess wings. Their sole purpose within their caste system, however, is to mate with a queen, when founding a new colony.
The majority of workers attain a body length of between 0.2 – 0.24 in (5 – 6 mm). The major workers, though, reach slightly greater sizes. These grow to as much as 0.3 – 0.4 in (8 – 10 mm) in length. Queens, meanwhile, grow to lengths of up to 0.8 – 1.0 in (2.0 – 2.5 cm).
Gender-based physical differences also appear in other ways, too. The main body of workers possess shorter, thinner legs than the major workers. These also develop significantly larger and more powerful mandibles than those of their much more numerous brethren.
Color patterns also vary between the individuals of the Asian Weaver Ant. That’s true since, except for the queen, each individual presents on overall orange-brown shade. Queens, though, display a markedly different pattern. These manifest a pattern of green and brown.
- Kingdom: Animalia
- Phylum: Arthropoda
- Class: Insecta
- Order: Hymenoptera
- Family: Formicidae
- Genus: Oecophylla
- Species: O. smaragdina
Asian Weaver Ant Distribution, Habitat, and Ecology
Thankfully, the distinctive Asian Weaver Ant evolved as indigenous to a comparatively broad swathe of the globe. The regions it inhabits already remain well known for their impressive array of life. It’s currently unknown, though, if the insect ever appeared anywhere else.
As the name of this marvel of Nature and evolution implies, its zone of habitation includes large portions of the continent of Asia. However, the intrepid invertebrate’s also present in large sections of Australia. This provides it with a powerful evolutionary advantage.
Within that extensive overall range, though, it displays strong preferences regarding its choice of habitat. Known population concentrations only appear in the more tropical portions of its range. Thus, though extensive, its concentration’s somewhat broken.
The Arthropod further distinguishes itself from most of its relatives in another maner. That’s due to the fact that it exists solely as a primarily arboreal species. Wherever present, the species constructs its nests among the canopies and foliage of local tree varieties.
Each colony of the amazing Asian Weaver Ant may consist of multiple nests. The different nests sometimes appear in a single tree, or spread across several. Colonies sometimes reach massive sizes. The larger examples, in fact, occasionally exceed 500,000 individuals!
Members of this unique species principally feed on various local insects, and other small invertebrates. This mainly includes beetles, flies, bees, and even other ants. The species also maintains populations of aphids, to feed off the honeydew these creatures produce.
Giant Golden Orb Weaver
Giant Golden Orb Weaver Facts
- Closing out this article about 7 Awesome Invertebrates of Australia comes the astounding creature known as the Giant Golden Orb Weaver.
- This product of Nature and evolution most frequently goes by the descriptive common name due to its dazzling appearance. It also has another, very similar name, though. That’s the term northern golden orb weaver. But, whatever one calls it, it’s impressive.
- The term used also varies across its native range. Among scientific professionals, however, it’s typically referred to by its formal title. Most such specialists know this variety of golden orb weaver spider by the technical moniker of Nephila pilipes.
- Johann Christian Fabricius made the first acknowledgement of the arachnid as a separate and distinct species. This scientifically noteworthy deed the student of Carl Linnaeus accomplished in 1793. Since then, nine subspecies have been recognized.
- For the moment, this wonder of the invertebrate world further appears to be in a much better position than many species around the world. That’s due to the fact that it seems to be maintaining a population base that’s equally sizeable, sufficient, and stable.
- That fortunate situation further seems to hold true across the entirety of its range. Due to this, the IUCN presently lists the Giant Golden Orb Weaver as Least Concern. That status is reflected on the organization’s published Red List of Threatened Species.
- The intriguing arachnid nevertheless faces some factors that could eventually pose a threat to it. Habitat loss and degradation, largely due to human activities, rank among these. Its greatest potential threat, however, likely comes from climate change.
Giant Golden Orb Weaver Physical Description
The remarkable Giant Golden Orb Weaver easily impresses and intrigues those who encounter it. Although the Arthropod does so for several reasons, its sheer size clearly ranks high among them. That’s because it’s one of the largest of all of its close relatives.
In keeping with that, it also manifests a strong degree of the physiological trait of sexual dimorphism, like many arachnids. In its case, this characteristic primarily manifests itself in terms of sheer size. More precisely, the female of the species literally dwarfs the male!
Females of the species typically reach a body length equaling roughly 2 in (5 cm). That body also develops as highly elongated. Along its length, the body varies in width from 0.4 – 0.6 in (1.0 – 1.5 cm). Her legspan, however, typically measures a relatively enormous 6 in (15 cm)!
Males, meanwhile, remain quite tiny in comparison. That holds true given the fact that few individuals of that gender attain a body length beyond 0.25 in (0.64 cm). Its legspan also remains equally small in comparison, rarely exceeding 2 in (5 cm) in this specific aspect.
Otherwise, both genders of the Giant Golden Orb Weaver vary little in general outward appearance. The main exception to this is the coloring of the legs. Those of the female present a combination of yellow and black. Those of the male, though, show a light brown.
In terms of other color patterns, individuals vary significantly, with no regard to gender. The shades presented run from violet, to silver-gray, to various shades of brown. Males also develop small hairs on their legs, while most of the adult females lack these entirely.
- Kingdom: Animlia
- Phylum: Arthropoda
- Class: Arachnida
- Order: Araneae
- Family: Araneidae
- Genus: Nephila
- Species: N. pilipes
Giant Golden Orb Weaver Distribution, Habitat, and Ecology
Luckily for the Arthropod, the Giant Golden Orb Weaver evolved as native a comparatively broad swathe of the globe. That zone of habitation also happens to be a general region shared by numerous other amazing species. It’s unknown if it ever appeared anywhere else.
That statement holds true partly because it evolved in a region that includes parts of the continent of Asia. There, it makes its home in the east and southeast portions of the area. Yet it also lives in other parts of the general region known as Oceania, including in Australia.
Wherever it makes its home, though, the remarkable arachnid displays strong preferences regarding its exact habitat. As a general principle, it only resides in areas or relatively high moisture, for one. Yet it also strongly prefers that area to also have little or no direct sunlight.
In parts of its range, this often includes regions of rainforest. Most often, in all parts of its habitation range, it most commonly lives comparatively near the coast. That’s due to the greater level of overall precipitation. It also appears in parks and even private yards.
The magnificent Giant Golden Orb Weaver generally constructs its large webs in trees or larger bushes. It also creates these structures against buildings or other large features of the terrain. In most of these locations, though, it requires relatively close surface water.
It also evolved as highly choosy in its diet, unlike most spiders. In fact, it only feeds on a few species. It even goes so far as to remove some insects from its web! The spider avoids insects that exude certain unpleasant compounds. It mainly feeds on somewhat larger prey.
7 Awesome Invertebrates of Australia
We hope that each of you enjoyed reading, and hopefully learning from, this article we’ve written about these 7 Awesome Invertebrates of Australia. It’s also our hope that doing so has left you with either a new or renewed appreciation for such wonders of Nature.
Unfortunately, many of their kindred around the world now find themselves facing strong threats to their continued existence as a species. Many of those dangers, in fact, stem from the actions of mankind. We must do all we can to protect and preserve them all.
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