There is a report (http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/news/science/biology_evolution/article6869475.ece) of the discovery of a South American species of spider (Bagheera kiplingi) that atypically (spiders were thought to be only capable of feeding on predigested animal material) lives entirely on vegetable matter. The spider actually eats the lipid- and protein-rich Beltian bodies of the Acacia bush that attract the symbiotic ants that try to protect the plant. The Beltian bodies are essentially 'baby food' for ant larvae. The spider also eats an occassional ant larva, so it is clearly not a vegan! The spider uses its web-building ability only to create structures in which to rear its young. The finding is another illustration of the adaptability of animal species. Many are able to make major transformations of lifestyle when the benefits outweigh the costs. This is something reiterated in the new BBC 'Life' programmes (http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b00lbpcy).
This blog may help people explore some of the 'hidden' issues involved in certain media treatments of environmental and scientific issues. Using personal digital images, it's also intended to emphasise seasonal (and other) changes in natural history of the Swansea (South Wales) area. The material should help participants in field-based modules and people generally interested in the natural world. The views are wholly those of the author.
Sunday 11 October 2009
Veggie Spider?
There is a report (http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/news/science/biology_evolution/article6869475.ece) of the discovery of a South American species of spider (Bagheera kiplingi) that atypically (spiders were thought to be only capable of feeding on predigested animal material) lives entirely on vegetable matter. The spider actually eats the lipid- and protein-rich Beltian bodies of the Acacia bush that attract the symbiotic ants that try to protect the plant. The Beltian bodies are essentially 'baby food' for ant larvae. The spider also eats an occassional ant larva, so it is clearly not a vegan! The spider uses its web-building ability only to create structures in which to rear its young. The finding is another illustration of the adaptability of animal species. Many are able to make major transformations of lifestyle when the benefits outweigh the costs. This is something reiterated in the new BBC 'Life' programmes (http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b00lbpcy).
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