Ant-mimicking spider from Cambodia. The extent of their mimicry is remarkable: The front pair of legs are raised in front of the body like antennae (which spiders lack), which also tricks the viewer into believing it has six legs instead of eight. Additionally, the cephalothorax is oddly shaped to give the appearance of three body segments, although spiders only have two. Mimicking ants confers several benefits; many predators find ants distasteful, and are fooled into avoiding what would be (presumably) a tasty spider snack. This appearance also helps them remain inconspicuous if they hunt among the ants they imitate.
Ant-mimicking spiders from Koh Chang Island, Thailand. The extent of their mimicry is remarkable: The front pair of legs are raised in front of the body like antennae (which spiders lack), which also tricks the viewer into believing it has six legs instead of eight. Additionally, the cephalothorax is oddly shaped to give the appearance of three body segments, although spiders only have two. Mimicking ants confers several benefits; many predators find ants distasteful, and are fooled into avoiding what would be (presumably) a tasty spider snack. This appearance also helps them remain inconspicuous if they hunt among the ants they imitate.
Unidentified spider from Koh Chang Island, Thailand.
