Spiny-backed orb-weaver (jewel spider)

Gardens, woodland edges, and other vegetated areas in warm regions; it builds orb webs among plants.

Catches and eats small flying insects, including flies and mosquitoes, in its web.

The female makes a circular web and typically waits at its center or nearby. Its hard, brightly patterned abdomen bears several sharp-looking spines.

Harmless to people; bites are rare and generally not medically significant. It helps control flying insect populations.