Spiny orb-weaver

Spiny orb-weavers is a common name for Gasteracantha, a genus of spiders. They are also commonly called spiny-backed orb-weavers, due to the prominent spines on their abdomen (compare genus Isoxya). These spiders can reach sizes of up to 3 cm (1.2 in) in diameter (measured from spike to spike). Although their abdomen is shaped like a crab shell with spikes, it is not to be confused with a crab spider.
Often brightly colored, spiny orb-weavers have a broad, hard abdomen that can be white, orange, or yellow with red markings.[2] The female shell is ringed by six red or orange spines, whereas the smaller male lacks the spiny projections and instead has four to five stubby dark projections.[3]
Yellow spiny back orb weaver spider. Photographed in New Orleans, Louisiana, USA
Orb-weavers' bites are generally harmless to humans.[4]
Category:Animals
Category:Creatures