Male redback spiders invite cannibalism through a ‘self-sacrificial somersault’ during sex – but why?
New research explores the genetic basis for the 'self-sacrificial somersault' performed by male redback spiders during mating. This behavior, which often leads to the male being eaten by the female, is thought to maximize reproductive success.
Why it matters
Understanding unique evolutionary behaviors provides deeper insight into biological adaptation and sexual selection.
A female redback. Of the 31 species of widow spider, male sacrificial behaviour is only usually observed in redbacks and brown widows. A female redback. Of the 31 species of widow spider, male sacrificial behaviour is only usually observed in redbacks and brown widows. Spiders Male redback spiders invite cannibalism through a ‘self-sacrificial somersault’ during sex – but why? New research sheds light on the genetic basis of the venomous insect’s ‘weird mating behaviour’
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Prefer the Guardian on Google If you think you’ve had a bad one-night stand, spare a thought for the male redback spider, whose sole reproductive partner eats him after sex.
Male redbacks appear to invite this cannibalism through a “self-sacrificial somersault”, with new research shedding light on the genetic basis of the behaviour.
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