Portia spiders generally have had no positive or negative effects on humans, although they do play an important role in keeping in check the spider populations in some areas.
Portia spiders are consistently included in discussions of the smartest creatures in the animal kingdom, and proportionately have a very large brain capable of image recognition, sequential problem solving, route planning, and species-specific strategies.
Research Interest
- Scientists have conducted important research into the spiders excellent vision, and image recognition, including being able to see itself (and recognize its species) in a mirror
- Scientists have also studied extensively the hunting strategies of the portia spiders, and have noted the extensive use of problem solving used in routes to catch prey
- The spiders are capable of species recognition, and will adjust their hunting strategies accordingly. Their shaking of the webs is tailored to elicit a response from certain spiders. Upon encountering a new spider prey, the portia spiders will randomly test a variety of shaking strategies. Upon seeing a response from its prey, it will use the same shaking motion continually until its prey is lured out.
- Portia spiders are continually mentioned and included in discussions of the smartest creatures in the animal kingdom:
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- WorldMustBeCrazy
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- ranker.com
