18/01/2025
Lessons in neat embroidery from an argiope spider. Spotted on our SGNP nature trail in Mumbai. This is the underside of a leaf. See the second photo with the blue Mumbai sky showing through.
Argiopes include several species, and they are popularly called St Andrews Cross spiders, from their habit of resting with feet stretched out in a X cross shape.
The St Andrews Cross (see pic 3) also features on the flag of Scotland, South Africa, and several other flags.
We loved the neat zigzag stitches. These types of spider stitches are called stabilimenta. There's a lot of debate about their purpose. They add no stability, as a matter of fact. So why do they even exist?
One theory is that such stabilementa serve a protective function by making the argiope spider look larger than it actually is. Another theory is that it reflects ultraviolet and attracts prey. A third theory suggests it's used by females to attract males. Another idea is that it's possibly used to emphasise the spider's presence to prevent accidental destruction of the web. Debates are still ongoing.
The argiope's stabilimenta are also in a X Cross shape. The spider sits in the middle. There are four rows of stabilamenta stitches, one extending along each leg of the spider, making it look bigger than it is. In the photo, our spider has completed only 2 of them so far.
Do join us on our SGNP NATURE TRAIL if you would like to enjoy a day in the forest, exploring the many wonders of nature. WhatsApp +919867707414 to book a walk.
