The American cousin of the wasp spider Argiope bruennichi in Europe. In America it is commonly found in gardens and grassy meadows and is called the 'garden spider'. They are harmless, though in the very unlikely event of a bite the effects are likely to be mild swelling and itching at the site of the bite. A distincive feature of this spider is the zig-zag of silk found in its web. This zig-zag is called 'stabilimentum' as it was thought to strengthen the web. Its purpose has been the subject of great debate amongst arachnologists.

Above: young spiders often make different stabilimentum.

Above: An excellent picture sent to me by Janee, who runs a website featuring Photoshop artwork and photography on a number of subjects. Visit http://www.myjanee.com.

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