Nephila Clavipes

The Golden-orb weaver family has a special member called Nephila Clavipes. This unique spider lives in both Northern and Southern America. Some people in the United States even call it the banana spider. Here, you’ll discover interesting facts about this fascinating creature.

Scientific Classification

• Family: Araneidae
• Genus: Nephila
• Scientific name: Nephila Clavipes

Physical Description and Identification

Adults

• Size: These big spiders are larger than many other tarantula species. The females are approximately between 24 mm and 40 mm long, while the male spiders which have slender bodies measure about 6mm.
• Color: The females possess a bright color pattern, having a silver carapace, dull or tan body with spots of yellow, as well as orange bands on their legs. Their abdomen has a bright shade that gradually changes as the spider attains maturity.On the other hand, the males have a dark brown body.
• Other Characteristic Features: They have long legs alongside clumps of hair on their body, which are typical to species of their genus.

Eggs

Each female spins at least 2 egg sacs on the tree having a diameter of 2.5 cm to 3 cm. Each sac has hundreds of eggs enveloped in a yellow silken basket.

Spiderlings

The spiderlings stay in the web for some time post their birth and then disperse to be on their own. They are of a different color in the beginning and undergo a transformation with maturity.

The Web

A mature female spider’s web has a diameter of 1mm excluding the filaments that hold it firmly between the trees. These filaments may have a length between 2mm and 3mm. The silk of their web possesses a yellow pigment that gives it a golden glow. The males enter into the webs of the female for mating.

Are Nephila Clavipes Spiders Venomous?

Yes, Nephila Clavipes spiders have venom, but it’s mostly harmless to humans.

Can Nephila Clavipes Spiders Bite?

Yes, they can bite if they feel threatened, but the bite is usually mild and similar to a bee sting causing localized pain with a little redness that gets cured in no time.

Ecological Importance and Behavior of Nephila Clavipes

The Nephila Clavipes plays a crucial role in its habitat. It helps control the population of insects, including some pests, thus contributing to the balance of the ecosystem. The spider’s behavior includes a unique mating ritual where the significantly smaller male must approach the female with caution to avoid being mistaken for prey.

Natural Predator: Natural predators of this spider include various birds and lizards that can navigate the sticky webs, as well as other larger spider species that can overpower the Golden-orb weaver.

Prey-Predator Dynamics: The Nephila Clavipes is a master at capturing and immobilizing prey with its strong, golden web. Its web’s unique color and strength make it an effective trap for various flying insects, which are its main diet.

Relationship with Humans: Humans have marveled at the Golden-orb weaver’s silk for its potential use in textiles due to its strength and color. While the spiders are not aggressive toward humans and their venom isn’t harmful, they can give a painful bite if provoked. Their presence is often welcomed by gardeners due to their role in managing insect populations.

Quick Facts

Did You Know

• In Latin, the first half of their last name “clava” means key, club or a knotted staff. The last part of their name, “pes” stand for pertaining to the foot”
• The males are so small that they would go unrecognized if they did not come into the female’s web.
• Their silk has medical and surgical importance.

In conclusion, the Nephila Clavipes is an ecologically beneficial spider, with a harmless nature and a unique, intriguing presence in nature.