Saint Andrews cross spider is shown on its web with the stabilimentum well visualized in Costa Rica central America

Saint Andrew's Cross Spider

Costa Rica, Central America

Argiope submaronica is sometimes called the St. Andrew's Cross Spider because of the characteristic cross shape of its web decorations. This cross shape, made of dense silk, is called a stabilimentum. While the exact function of the stabilimentum is still being studied, it's thought to play a role in:

  • Attracting prey: The silk reflects UV light, which is attractive to insects.
  • Warning predators: The prominent decoration might alert predators like birds to the web, preventing its accidental destruction.
  • Camouflage: The variable shape of the cross can confuse predators, making the spider harder to find.

The spider will often position itself in the center of the web with its legs aligned with the arms of the cross, further enhancing the visual impact of the stabilimentum.

Photo © copyright by Dr. Edward Mikol.

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