Asexual Reproduction of Spiders
WouterAsexual reproduction of spiders is not more successful than sexual reproduction. However, some animals are more likely to reproduce asexually, especially if they have a genetic mutation. As a result, they will evolve.
One of the most well-known forms of asexual reproduction is sexual cannibalism. This is usually the case when a female kills a male to get sperm. Some species may even consume their own offspring.
In order to avoid predation, some spider species carry a cocoon over their body. They also tend to take care of their young.
Other species undergo traumatic insertion, which is when the spider injects sperm directly inside the female. This technique is first observed in the Harpactea Sadistica spider.
The genital morphology of spiders opens the way to many different ways to secure paternity. This includes syringe-like structures on their palps, as well as the male’s ability to inject sperm into the epigyne of the female.
In addition to these sexually-controlled morphological traits, spiders also have a variety of other mechanisms in place to control their mating behavior. These include chemical cues on the dragline silk of receptive females, and seismic signaling.
Some spiders also emit stridulations, which are shrill cries during sex. These cries are not normally audible to humans, but they are meant to raise the chance that the male will select the female’s sperm.
Sexual size dimorphism is a common phenomenon. Females are larger than males, which can help them produce more eggs.
