#nephila clavipes

Dewdrop spiders (Argyrodes) are small silvery spiders that live in the webs of larger spiders, like this golden silk spider (Nephilaclavipes) whose massive web hosts several of them.

Argyrodes feed kleptoparasitically on insects trapped by the larger spider. In this case a dewdrop spider is sharing a dead honeybee with several jackal flies (Milichiidae), which are also specialized kleptoparasites of spiders and other predators.

ThoughArgyrodes are typically assumed to be freeloaders, studies have shown that their reflective silvery appearance can attract more moths and other prey to the host‘s web, and that they most often feed on leftovers and small prey that the host spider doesn’t want.

(Florida, 10/27/21)