Upsetting our world view!

Christopher Meehan of Villanova University in Pennsylvania has discovered a species of spider that eats acacia leaves. This is the first confirmed example of a spider that feeds primarily on plant matter.

Acacia plants have a fascinating mutually beneficial relationship with ants - resident ants will fiercely attack any potential marauders (such as caterpillars and browsers) that may harm the plant. In return, the plant supplies a home in large, hollow thorns and uses specialized glands to produce a sugary food for the ants.

This amazing spider has not only developed the ability to survive off of plant matter, he must also avoid these "vicious, biting ants". What an amazing world!