Tarantula Molting
Molting is a natural process whereby a new exoskeleton is produced and the old one is shed. Tarantulas undergo a series of such molts at various developmental stages. The molting process allows them to adapt to their growing bodies while remaining protected by the exoskeleton. Molting also regenerates missing appendages; after a succession of molts, these appendages may reach their original proportions.
Prior to molting, tarantulas often fast for a number of days and appear sluggish and restless. During this time, tarantulas spin molting mats from silk. These arachnids must split themselves open in order to free themselves from their old exoskeletons. However, before molting begins, a new exoskeleton has already formed inside the old one. This new exoskeleton is soft and flexible, but will solidify after the old one is shed.
After molting, tarantulas fast again, as they must wait for their new fangs and exoskeletons to harden before they are able to feed. Molting can pose danger to tarantulas. In extremely dry conditions, the old exoskeleton may not soften enough to be removed. Molting periods also render tarantulas more vulnerable to predators.
Tarantula spiderlings may molt as often as once each month, while half-grown specimens molt approximately two to three times per year. Time intervals between molts increase as tarantulas near maturity.
Scientific Name for Tarantulas
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