Research Paper On Portia Spider

The Portia spider is known for its remarkable abilitys to learn and problem solve. Due to this spiders magnificent capabilities, the Portia spider has developed a unique hunting behavior belonging only to its’ species. The inspiration for the Portia’s spiders name came from William Shakespeare's heroine from the Merchant of Venice, Portia. She too demonstrates extraordinary intelligence and the ability to learn. The two are alike in mind, goals, trickery, and even the underestimation of their power from prey. The Merchant of Venice Portia thinks carefully before she acts. She observes those who she must face, and decides the best plan of action. In the case of her suitors, she gets to know each of them, and knows their weaknesses, like alcohol or greed. The Portia spider does the same. When discovering prey, the Portia spider quietly observes it for a time, before deciding if it will take what it desires, or continue onward to another more desirable prey. …show more content…
She tricks him into believing she is on his side. But beforehand, Portia carefully studied the case until a fatal flaw was discovered, the flaw that no drop of blood can be spilled. In comparison, the Portia spider does something similar to this. Portia spider observes it’s prey until it figures the best way to attack. One such way is to pretend to be prey. The spider pulls on another spiders web, leading it to believe prey has been trapped. The preyed upon spider has no reason to believe it is in danger, until it draws too close and it is quickly snatched up by the Portia spider. Merchant of Venice Portia and the Portia spider are alike in characteristics of observing, patience, and the ability to lead prey into a false sense of hope and