What is the immediate effect of the cytotoxic venom injected by the yellow sac spider during a strike?
Answer
To paralyze the prey
The yellow sac spider employs a quick and decisive predatory strike. Once they successfully close the distance on unsuspecting prey, they inject them using specialized mouthparts that deliver cytotoxic venom. The primary function of this venom is immobilization; it works quickly to paralyze the mobile victim. Only after the prey is completely subdued, preventing escape, do the spiders proceed to the next step of consumption. This efficiency is crucial for capturing fast-moving creatures like moths or flies that would easily evade a slower ambush predator.

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