What dual purpose does direct sunlight serve for the writing spider's web placement?
Answer
Warmth for metabolism and attracting flying prey
The decision to construct webs in sunny locations fulfills two vital needs for the *Argiope aurantia*. Firstly, the heat absorbed by the spider allows it to maintain an optimal metabolic rate, enabling the energy expenditure required for web maintenance and capturing prey. Secondly, the presence of direct sunlight serves as a natural lure for various flying insects, which are often drawn to brightly lit areas. By positioning the large orb web precisely where sunlight is abundant, the spider maximizes both its physiological efficiency and its potential for successful foraging, leading to a higher catch rate of insects.
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