How Do Spiders Asexually Reproduce?
WouterSpiders are sexually reproducing creatures. The females lay eggs and store sperm in specialized receptacles. They then release the sperm later to fertilize the eggs in the uterus.
Spider reproduction is complex. The most important process is intercourse, or the exchange of sperm between a male and a female. In some species, the adult female stays in the natal colony. In others, she disperses to find a new colony.
The genital morphology of spiders is an important feature that opens up many avenues for paternity. The size of a female is considered a major factor in her reproductive success. If she has a smaller body, she is more likely to produce eggs. On the other hand, if she has a larger body, she can produce more fecundity.
The female redback spider has two spermathecae. One is used for inseminating the sperm and the other is used for storing the sperm. During mating, the male injects sperm into the epigynum, which is the opening in the abdomen. In some species, the spermatheca is filled with secretion before mating, which embeds the sperm mass in the epigynum.
The female redback spider can also control the insemination of subsequent males. She will kill a male that attempts to mate with an empty spermatheca. Alternatively, she can prevent the insertion of sperm in a rival spermatheca by plugging the duct.
A common explanation for why sexes exhibit a difference in dispersal behavior is local resource competition. But this is only one reason. Other factors include body size, inbreeding, and timing of maturity.
