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Name: Bobbi
Status: student
Grade: 9-12
Location: WV
Country: USA
Date: Winter 2011-2012
Question:
It is true that all female arachnids are larger than the males?


Replies:
Generally, female arachnids are appreciably larger than their male counterparts (sexual dimorphism). Evolutionary biologists suspect that this makes males more mobile and able to search for widely dispersed females. Females, conversely, take a wait and see approach, tending to their webs. This is just one of many complementary strategies in the animal kingdom to ensure the continuation of the species.

Dr. Tim Durham Instructor, Office of Curriculum and Instruction University Colloquium Department of Biological Sciences Florida Gulf Coast University

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