Tropical Orb Weaver
The tropical orb-weaver of the Eriophora ravilla genus is a member of the Araneidae family and has a wide range, indigenous to most parts of the United States.
Tropical Orb Weaver Spider Facts
| Size | 12 to 24 mmm in length for females and 9 to 13 mm in length for males |
| Color | Reddish brown color body but stomach color varies from brown to gray |
| Diet | Small insects |
| Lifespan | 12 months |
| Distribution | Found in Caribbean Islands, tropical part of Florida, Central America |
Physical Appearance and Identification Traits
1. Size
Tropical orb weaver size for both gender are different. The females vary from 12 to 24 mm in length, whereas males vary from 9 to 13 mm in length
2. Color
Female tropical orb weaver spider have a mostly reddish-brown cephalothorax and legs, with darker femora. The dorsum of the abdomen can vary from gray to brown. The males have a similar color to that of females, but their abdomen is much smaller as compared to females and is dark gray in color
3. Web
The tropical orb weaver hides in curled up leaves during the daytime, and after-sun sunsets, it emerges and builds spiral-shaped webs between trees, plants, or human structures. The spiders spend their night at the center of the web.
4. Eggs
Tropical orb weaver spider lay small oval-shaped eggs which are enclosed in the sac.
Lifespan
Tropical orb weaver spider have a lifespan of up to 12 months.
Habitat
Tropical orb-weavers are usually found in woodlands, orchards, and citrus fruits grooves.
Preys and Predators
Tropical orb weaver spiders usually eat small insects that get trapped in their webs.
Distribution
The tropical orb weaver, Eriophora ravilla, is found throughout the tropical areas of the Americas from Florida along the Gulf Coast, throughout Central America, the Caribbean Islands, and Northern South America.
Does Tropical Orb Weaver Bite, and Are They Poisonous?
The tropical orb weaver’s bite is harmless for humans. Even if they bite, symptoms like minor pain or swelling are seen. It is recommended to disinfect the bite to avoid infections
