Possible Ladybird Spider

Brian Dauncey · #1 (**permalink**) 15-01-2012, 12:02 PM

Hi, I saw this spider in the Aosta Valley, Italy. It resembles a Ladybird spider, but with fainter markings. Can anyone identify it?
Possible Ladybird spider - Wildlife Photography

jaguarondi · #2 (**permalink**) 17-01-2012, 02:41 PM

I suspect it's just a slightly unusual variant of a common Araneus species. See -
BioLib - Image - Araneus diadematus (Cross Spider)
BioLib - Image - Araneus quadratus (Four Spot Orb Weaver)

paul m · #3 (**permalink**) 17-01-2012, 03:10 PM

Doesn't look right for the expected species but there are several Eresus spp with 'ladybird' patterns in Europe. Eresidae

Could it be an immature specimen with colours/patterns not yet fully developed?

jaguarondi · #4 (**permalink**) 17-01-2012, 05:43 PM

.. but it's not an eresid spider. Amongst other features, a comparison of the shape of the cephalothorax (head/thorax) with any Eresus species will indicate that.

Brian Dauncey · #5 (**permalink**) 23-01-2012, 09:39 AM

Hi,
After your responses and researching other sites, I believe this is indeed a Araneus Quadratus, possibly a female that has lain its eggs. I understand that this species can adapt its colour to match its surroundings (over a space of days) which may account for the variety of images on the Net.
regards
Brian Dauncey

paul m · #6 (**permalink**) 23-01-2012, 09:45 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Brian Dauncey

Hi,
After your responses and researching other sites, I believe this is indeed a Araneus Quadratus, possibly a female that has lain its eggs. I understand that this species can adapt its colour to match its surroundings (over a space of days) which may account for the variety of images on the Net.
regards
Brian Dauncey

Thanks for the explanation - we live and learn!