These Spiders Look Like They're Covered In Mirrors

These spiders are very unique. They may look like some piece of delicate jewelry, but in fact they’re a rare species of spider. They’re called mirror or sequined spiders and belong to the hwaitesia genus. This genus features spiders with reflective silvery patches on their abdomen.

Researchers have determined that the spiders use these reflective areas to scatter light in order to evade predation, making it difficult for other animals to see them. These glimmering splotches are most likely crystalline deposits comprised of guanine. Spiders are generally renowned for their camouflage capabilities, highlighted by the diversity of species that are capable of changing color. Some are even able to contract their guanine sequin spots.