What is nephila?

Nephila is a genus of large and colorful spiders commonly known as golden orb-weavers or banana spiders. They belong to the family Araneidae and are found in many regions of the world, particularly in tropical and subtropical areas.

The female Nephila spiders are considerably larger than males and can measure up to 10 cm in length. They spin large, sturdy webs made of golden silk that can span up to 1.5 meters in diameter, and their webs contain zigzag patterns called stabilimenta that may function to deter birds from flying into the web.

Nephila spiders are not considered dangerous to humans, but their bites can cause mild discomfort and swelling. They feed mainly on flying insects like moths, bees, and butterflies, and they can often be seen hanging upside down in their webs, patiently waiting for prey to fly into their grasp.

These spiders are also known for their intricate courtship rituals, with males performing elaborate dance-like movements to attract a female. After mating, the female will lay eggs in a spherical sac and guard them until they hatch.

Nephila spiders have been admired for their impressive web-building abilities and their striking appearance, and they have appeared in many myths and legends throughout history.