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There's a Species of Spider That Eats Itself

The Australian Zebra Spider (Simonida striatipes) is a species of ant-mimicking spider that, under certain conditions, will consume its own siblings after mating. This behavior, known as filial cannibalism, has been observed in laboratory settings. In one study, 70% of female Zebra Spiders displayed this behavior, with some individuals consuming up to 5 siblings in a single mating cycle. This unusual trait is thought to be an adaptation to ensure the survival of the offspring.