Golden orb-weaver, Nephila clavipes, from Panama. These enormous spiders produce silk that is significantly stronger than steel while maintaining elasticity, making it a unique biopolymer that is currently being investigated for medical and military applications.
Panama Blonde tarantula, Psalmopoeus pulcher, from Panama. Seeing a full-grown tree-dwelling tarantula in the wild was quite an experience, especially because I encountered her at eye level.
Spiny-backed orbweaver, Gasteracantha cancriformis, from the Timuacan preserve near Jacksonville, Florida.
