Tarantula

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Tarantula

Tarantula (/təˈræntʃələ/ or /təˈræntʃʊlə/) is a group of large and often hairy arachnids belonging to the family Theraphosidae, of which approximately 1,000 species have been identified.

Etymology

The name Tarantula comes from the town of Taranto in Italy and originally referred to the wolf spider, which was thought to cause a condition known as tarantism, believed to be cured by frenzied dancing.

Description

Tarantulas are characterized by their large size, hairy bodies, and fangs that inject venom. They vary in color and behavior according to species. Despite their fearsome reputation, most species of tarantulas are not dangerous to humans, and some species have become popular in the exotic pet trade.

Habitat and Distribution

Tarantulas are found in tropical, subtropical, and arid regions throughout the world, with the majority of species found in the Americas. They inhabit a wide range of environments, including desert basins, mountain ranges, and rainforests.

Behavior

Tarantulas are mostly solitary creatures, spending most of their lives in burrows or crevices. They are nocturnal, hunting insects, small birds, and rodents at night. Some species are known for their defensive behavior, such as flicking irritating hairs at potential predators or rearing up on their hind legs.

Related Terms

  • Arachnid: A class of joint-legged invertebrate animals, in the subphylum Chelicerata.
  • Venom: A type of poison, especially one secreted by an animal.
  • Wolf spider: Any member of the spider family Lycosidae, of the order Araneae, a large and widespread group that are among the most common spiders in terrestrial habitats.

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