Tarantulas Form of Protection
Although tarantulas are formidable predators, they also serve as prey to other creatures. The tarantula hawk, or pepsis wasp, is the most dangerous of these predators and utilizes the bodies of tarantulas as egg incubation sites. Other predators, such as scorpions, attack tarantulas for food or competition. As a result, the tarantula has developed a series of protective mechanisms.
The tarantula's body and legs are covered in hair. However, beneath the abdomen of this large spider is a small bald spot, which is brushed against the body of an attacker in order to release microscopic hairs. These hairs, known as urticating hairs, cause severe irritation after coming into contact with the skin or exoskeleton of an attacker. As the predator attempts to relieve itself of this irritation, tarantulas are given time to run and hide. Tarantulas may also bombard potential predators with urticating hairs, flinging them into the air by briskly rubbing their bellies with their hind legs. Tarantulas found in South and North America most commonly exhibit bombarding behavior.
The pedipalps of the tarantula are used primarily for hunting. However, these appendages may also be utilized in self-defense. Upon perceiving a threat, tarantulas rear onto their back legs to reveal these fangs. Tarantulas will bite when further provoked and the venom can prove fatal to small insects and animals. In lesser quantities, this venom merely paralyzes predators, allowing tarantulas to flee from danger.
Scientific Name for Tarantulas
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