How Do Spiders Protect Their Young?
WouterA spider is a mammalian-like creature that can lay as many as 600 eggs in a single egg sac. The size and shape of the egg sac depend on the species. Some spiders build elaborate, woven webs and others leave the egg sac in a secure location. They also construct thick silk sacs to protect the eggs.
Various studies have been conducted to explore the behavior of spiders, including the role of the female in raising the young. Researchers have investigated the relationship between maternal care and cannibalism, especially in spiders. This is called matriphagy.
The term matriphagy was first used by German arachnologist Ernst Kullmann in the early 20th century. During the time, scientists discovered that some spiders consumed their male partners. This was done to improve the fecundity and survival of the offspring.
Matriphagy is a rare trait among animal species. Despite this, it is common among spiders. However, it is not known whether this practice is beneficial for the offspring. Alternatively, it may be harmful.
A study published in Science magazine describes how a spider mother feeds its offspring. The milk is rich in protein, four times the amount found in cow’s milk. It is also a good source of vitamins and minerals.
Another study, conducted by researchers in Europe, showed that the mother of the hackledmesh weaver Amaurobius ferox constructs an egg sac. She then guards the egg for up to three weeks. The egg sac is usually shaped like a spherical structure. This thimble-like structure regulates the temperature of the egg.
