UV and camouflage in crab spiders (Thomisidae)

Abstract

Crab spiders are formidable predators of many insects. Their colour is particularly fascinating and we have an excellent account of the foraging ecology of some species. A more recent research focus has been the prevalence of UV reflection in some crab spider species. In this chapter we discuss the methods of quantifying colour and colour contrast and review the distribution, mechanism, function and evolution of UV reflectance amongst crab spiders.