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Golden Silk Spider

Posted by December 12th, 2009 at 8:02 pm

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Orb Weavers

Mystery Spider
December 8, 2009
Hello WTB!
We came across a huge spider, approx 4 inches, on a huge spiderweb up in a tree. We were hoping you could help identify this arachnid and tell us if it is poisonous. Thanks!
Alex & Mom
South Florida

golden silk spider alex 208x300 Golden Silk Spider

Golden Silk Spider

Dear Alex & Mom,
This beautiful spider is a Golden Silk Spider.  It is a female and she is harmless.  The male is a mere 2% of the female’s body mass.  The strong golden silk of the web gives the spider its common name.  In some areas, the Golden Silk Spider, Nephila clavipes, is known as a Banana Spider.

Thanks so much for your information!  You guys are very helpful!

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