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Long-winged Kite Spider

The vibrant Gasteracantha versicolor, with its spiky, colorful shell, spins intricate webs in tropical forests. This striking spider not only dazzles with color but also helps maintain ecological balance by preying on insects. Its unique appearance and ecological role make it a fascinating subject for nature enthusiasts.

Length: 1 cm
Size
Brown, Yellow, Red, Black, White
Color
Low
Aggression
Characteristics
Gasteracantha versicolor, commonly known as the Colored Spiny Orb-Weaver, is a small, brightly colored spider found in tropical and subtropical regions. It is known for its distinctively hard, spiked abdomen that comes in various colors. This spider weaves circular webs and plays a crucial role in controlling insect populations.
Distribution Range of the Long-winged Kite Spider
Gasteracantha versicolor, commonly known as the Spiny Orb-weaver, is primarily found in Southeast Asia. Its geographical distribution includes countries such as Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, and the Philippines.
Long-winged Kite Spider's Habitat
Environmental Conditions
This species thrives in tropical and subtropical environments, often residing in humid forests, gardens, shrublands, and sometimes urban areas. The climate in these regions is typically warm with significant rainfall, which supports lush vegetation.
Ecological Niche
Gasteracantha versicolor occupies the ecological niche of a web-building predator. It constructs orb-shaped webs to capture prey, primarily small insects. It is typically found at varying heights in trees and bushes, where it can strategically place its webs to maximize prey capture. The species' distinctive spiny appearance is thought to provide protection against predators, allowing it to thrive in both dense forest ecosystems and more open, disturbed areas.