Shreyas Kuchibhotla

My doctoral research focusses on the behavioural adaptations, vibrational motifs and toxins used by araneophagic spiders such as pirate spiders (Mimetidae - pictured) to overcome their potentially dangerous prey. Hunting other spiders is risky business, and spiders that have evolved to do this appear to use a range of fascinating tactics such as web/retreat invasion and aggressive mimicry.    

Through my research, I aim to explore hypotheses on the convergent evolution of functional advantages against well-matched opponents, the breadth of haptic signals involved in spider hunting and mating, and the variety of proteins that serve in the biochemical arsenal of this diverse and under-researched group of venomous creatures. I am working in collaboration with Dr. Jason Schnell to combine behavioural and biochemical studies, with the broader postdoctoral goal of working to combat envenomation through ecologically informed techniques. 

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A male pirate spider (Ero aphana - Mimetidae)Shreyas Kuchibhotla