Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 25, 2026

Manipulation of Color Patterns in Jumping Spiders for Use in Behavioral Experiments
Published on: May 21, 2019
Phenotypic plasticity in an extended phenotype: the cobweb spider Campanicola campanulata alters web architecture in
Haixin Zhang1, He Zhang2,3, Lang Hu1
1Hubei Key Laboratory of Resource Utilization and Quality Control of Characteristic Crops, College of Life Science and Technology, Hubei Engineering University, Xiaogan 432000, Hubei, China.
Abstract:
Phenotypic plasticity in extended phenotypes has been proposed as a mechanism by which animals modify their phenotypes in response to changing environmental conditions. This phenomenon is exemplified by certain spiders that construct bell-shaped cobwebs using sand grains, soil particles, prey remains, and plant debris. The retreat and gumfooted lines in these cobwebs are believed to serve defensive and foraging functions. This study aimed to test both the phenotypic plasticity and the tradeoff hypotheses by examining whether the common cobweb spider Campanicola campanulata alters web architecture and behavioral investments in response to variations in prey availability. When prey availability increases, spiders build webs higher, construct smaller and lighter retreats, and produce cobwebs with fewer gumfooted lines and smaller capture areas. Results indicated that, in the presence of abundant ant-prey, spiders reduced their investment in both foraging and defense. These findings suggest that the web architecture of C. campanulata exhibits a high degree of plasticity in response to variation in prey availability, but investment in web architectures does not involve tradeoffs between foraging and defense.
More Related Videos
04:26Laboratory Maintenance of the Lower Dipteran Fly Bradysia (Sciara) coprophila: A New/Old Emerging Model Organism
Published on: April 19, 2024
10:31A Proboscis Extension Response Protocol for Investigating Behavioral Plasticity in Insects: Application to Basic, Biomedical, and Agricultural Research
Published on: September 8, 2014
Related Concept Videos
Frequency-dependent Selection
Background and Environment Affect Phenotype
An example of how genetic background affects phenotype can be seen in horses. The Extension gene in horses is responsible for their coat color. A wild-type gene (EE) produces black pigment in the coat, while a mutant gene (ee) produces red pigment. A...
Position-effect Variegation
Limits to Natural Selection
Types of Selection
What is Natural Selection?