How Are Ants and Spiders Similar?
WouterUsing super sticky silk lines, spiders are able to catch and eat their prey. This specialised behaviour has evolved over time. Spiders also design a variety of “silk tools” to help them with their quest for food.
There are several spiders that mimic ants. The most common mimic is ant mimicry. These spiders use small forelegs to wave in the air, and they also have an extra pair of legs.
Another mimic is Synemosyna. These spiders resemble arboreal ants in the genus Crematogaster. These spiders also have a sting, which can cause temporary paralysis. This sting is the most dangerous part of Synemosyna, because it can fool predators.
There are also jumping spiders, which have ant-like bodies. These spiders are also a part of the Salticidae family. The jumping spiders are referred to as ant-jumpers. They are famous for their elaborate mating dances. These spiders also are masters of disguise. They are able to drop off vegetation and then reappear on silk threads. They also hang out in their nests.
There is some evidence that jumping spiders are chemical mimics of ants. This may confer protection and an unlimited supply of food. They can also use their vision to target their prey. These spiders also have a good sense of smell, so they can detect chemicals in the air.
Several studies have examined the evolution of polymorphic mimicry. Some researchers found that some spider morphs were selected for their ability to mimic ants, while others were not.
