Argiope sp. Ident [Archive]

Code Monkey

08-21-2002, 07:38 PM

Here's a shot of my new free-range Argiope species that I caught while with the in-laws in eastern Maryland. I know it's not the best angle but does anyone have an identification?

Code Monkey

08-21-2002, 07:38 PM

The above also anounces that the Code Monkey has a new Digicam :D

johns

08-21-2002, 11:58 PM

argiope aurantia. nice cam.

MrDeranged

08-22-2002, 07:53 AM

Nice spider dude. What kind of camera did you end up getting?

Scott

Code Monkey

08-22-2002, 09:59 AM

The camera is an Olympus C-3030Z. The cool part is that the above close up was taken with the default macro settings, no funky lenses or no futzing with me.

Anyone got any idea how long this gal will last indoors since there won't be any sort of freeze to kill her off?

johns

08-22-2002, 12:30 PM

code-

app 4-8 months, judging by its sexual maturity.

the black and yellow argiope might drop an eggsac on you...

does she appear gravid?

Code Monkey

08-22-2002, 12:32 PM

Originally posted by johns
code-

app 4-8 months, judging by its sexual maturity.

the black and yellow argiope might drop an eggsac on you...

does she appear gravid?

I don't think so but I can always hope she was recently mated. My wife would just love that - a 2.5" spider in ever corner :)

TheEternal

08-22-2002, 12:38 PM

Originally posted by Code Monkey
The camera is an Olympus C-3030Z. The cool part is that the above close up was taken with the default macro settings, no funky lenses or no futzing with me.

Good choice! I just bought that one, myself (hence my rabid posting of pictures, lately).

Beautiful spider, by the way!!

-Bryan

Code Monkey

08-22-2002, 01:42 PM

Thanks for the help so far, John. One more question and then I think I can take it from here ;)

If you look closely at the photo, you'll notice that she's only got 6 legs. 2 of her left legs were missing when I found her. Will a mature female undergo any post-ultimate moults or is she a spider-gimp for life?

johns

08-22-2002, 02:10 PM

I noticed that in the picture, Code- but thought it impolite to say anything.:D

Unless you know spider-voodoo, chances are that she'll remain that way

Wade

08-22-2002, 03:46 PM

John's right...no more molts.

I've never had an adult live more that 1, maybe 2 months after capture. They drop a couple sacs, and then they decline pretty rapidly, looking weak and hanging in the web fo awhile. They'll feed if you put smashed crickets up to their mouths without spooking them. Up to then, though, they're great fun.

Wade