The invisible predator

[Prajwal J Ullal]

ID: Crab spider

One of the best camouflaged predators, these crab spiders are known to blend well or rather place itself well in a surrounding that blends with its appearance. Here is one of the examples where the spider was seen in offensive pose, ready to strike on any of the unsuspecting prey, that approaches the flower, but due to the colour of its body and the flower, it can hardly be spotted, for a human eye, from a distance, not sure if the same camouflage works for the insect vision too, and with its capacity to stay kaput for long time, it can stealthily prey on the visitors.

EXIF:
Canon 80D
Canon 100mm macro
F/10
Shutterspeed 1/200
ISO 400
Handheld, external flash fired

Location: Thane

[Sabyasachi Patra]

I think the flash is perhaps a bit overwhelming. A bit of contrast would be good. Nevertheless the camouflage is nice. It is difficult to spot this spider. Nature's way of continuing the cycle of life and death. Thanks for sharing.

Cheers,
Sabyasachi

[Mrudul Godbole]

In nature all species are aware of thier strengths and work on what they can do best. Here the spider uses the camouflage to its advantage to catch unsuspecting prey. Good capture. Thanks for sharing.