Myrmarachne plataleoides ♀ (Selangor)

M. plataleoides, especially the females, mimic the Weaver Ants in size, shape and colour. The body of the M. plataleoides appears like an ant, which has three body segments and six legs, by having constrictions on the cephalothorax and abdomen. This creates the illusion of having a distinct head, thorax and gaster of the weaver ant, complete with a long and slender waist. The large compound eyes of the weaver ant are mimicked by two black patches on the head. The female's front legs resemble the feelers of the Weaver Ants, while the males resemble a larger ant carrying a smaller one. I found this female together with the male (refer to previous post). It measures about 7mm.

The plants where the Myrmarachne plataleoides ♀ been found in nearby forest. (together with the male)

The Myrmarachne plataleoides ♀ on foliage that I found in Putrajaya.

#malaysia #selangor #macro #photography #antmimickingjumper #jumpingspider #salticidae #Myrmarachneplataleoides #female