The spiders usually woo their lady loves with a delicious insect snack before making their move.
But when stress levels go off the charts, these eight-legged Romeos serve up an empty “take-out container” instead!
Meet the Paratrechalea ornata spider, known for its suave seduction routine.
To sweep a female spider off her feet, a male will capture an insect, pack it up in a neat silk ball, and present it to her.
If she’s into it, she’ll delicately digest the silk to reach the treat inside while the male makes his move.
But some males are ditching the gourmet meals for duds.
Instead of yummy bugs, they’re handing over leaves or even insect leftovers they’ve snacked on.
Researchers, led by biologist Maria Albo from the University of the Republic in Uruguay, found that these culinary imposters pop up when the environment gets tough, LiveScience reported.
They studied two spider populations in different habitats. One had a chill climate, while the other was on a stress-inducing rollercoaster thanks to unpredictable weather.
In the calm neighbourhood, males carried worthless gifts only about 38% of the time. But in a stressful “hood”, a staggering 96% of males offered subpar swag.
Why? Well, it seems like the stressed-out spiders need all the grub they can get for their own survival in the unpredictable habitat.
Also, in the chill habitat, where food is abundant, bigger females want a fancy meal before mating to ensure their offsprings’ health.
Compiled by staff writer
Pictured above: Paratrechalea ornata spider
