Spiny back orb-weaver spider. This spider (Gasteracantha
arcuata) grows a pair of extremely long, curving spines from its
abdomen. It is thought the long spines evolved as a deterrent
against predators or to mimic spines and thorns. Picture: Nicky
Bay / Science Photo Library / Rex Features “It is the first-
known predominantly vegetarian spider; all of the other known
40,000 spider species are thought to be mainly carnivorous.
Bagheera kiplingi, which is found in Central America and Mexico,
bucks the meat-eating trend by feasting on acacia plants. ” -BBC