Spider which uses spring trap to capture prey discovered in Australia

Scientists have discovered a new species of spider in northern Australia that uses a unique, catapult-like silk trap to capture aggressive ants. The spider, nicknamed 'ballista,' employs high-tension silk to fling prey into its web with extreme force.
Why it matters
This discovery provides new insights into evolutionary biology and specialized predatory behaviors in arachnids.
Image source, Macquarie University Image caption, The spider has been nicknamed the "ballista" for the speed and force with which it flings prey into its web
The report is a straightforward scientific news piece based on published research findings.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in