CRITTER: PEACOCK SPIDER

摘要

With its doll eyes and fuzzy mouthparts, the Australian peacock spider could endear itself to even the most skittish arachnophobe. Only one-fifth of an inch long, this wee wonder is found in a broad range of habitats Down Under, from coastal sand dunes to suburban gardens. It is most noted for the male's lurid abdominal fan. (Until recently, scientists believed the surrounding flaps enabled the spider to fly.) Its brilliant markings, much like the peacock's plumage, are flaunted in an elaborate courtship dance for the benefit of the dun-colored female. Males are notably persistent, making moves on females who are aloof, pregnant, or of another species entirely.