Argiope bruennichi (wasp spider) is a species of orb-web spiders distributed throughout Central and Northern Europe, North Africa, parts of Asia, and the Azores archipelago. Like many other members of the genus Argiope (including St Andrew's Cross spiders), it has strikingly yellow and black markings on its abdomen.
The size difference of the male spiders allows males to come into contact with females, in relation to their orb webs. The male Argiope bruennichi is able to enter into the female's orb and thus make their webs without being detected as prey and eaten before they are able to mate, a major fitness advantage.
During the Summer of 2006, research found there had been an influx of these spiders in the UK. The coloration of this population is similar, although the yellow stripes are more cream-colored.
Besides the nominate subspecies, there is one subspecies currently recognized:
