How Do Spiders Change Colors When They Die?
WouterThe colour of a spider changes depending on the type of prey it catches. In addition to camouflage, this can be used for predator deterrence and to attract potential prey.
Crab spiders are a group of spiders that are characterized by their ability to change color. These spiders can be found in the United States. The most famous of these species is the “flower spider” group.
The whitebanded crab spider, sometimes referred to as a ridge-faced flower spider, can change its color to match flowers. The spider’s base color is usually yellow, but it has the ability to turn white. It is also known to sport red markings.
The goldenrod crab spider can also change its colour. The spider can change its colour to white when it’s on a goldenrod flower. The crab spider needs to excrete a pigment to change its colour. It can then regrow its pigment after a week.
Using video footage, Rolf Brechbuhl has studied the behavior of these spiders. He has recorded only one predator nabbing a spider. This is an unusual occurrence in vertebrate predators.
Other research has shown that the colour of a spider changes based on its diet. These changes are most obvious in spiders that have pale abdomens. They tend to have a thicker, opaque exoskeleton.
Researchers have also studied spider webs. This has shown that spider webs are very effective for camouflage. They can be very hard to see in heterogeneous visual environments.
