The short answer is: all tarantulas are spiders, but not all spiders are tarantulas. Tarantulas belong to the family Theraphosidae, a specific group within the larger order Araneae (spiders). Think of it like squares and rectangles – all squares are rectangles, but not all rectangles are squares. This means tarantulas share all the defining characteristics of spiders, but possess several unique features that set them apart.
This article will delve into the key distinctions between tarantulas and other spiders, addressing common questions and misconceptions.
What Makes a Tarantula a Tarantula?
Tarantulas are large, hairy spiders known for their striking appearance and often docile temperament (compared to some other spiders). Several key features distinguish them from other spider families:
- Size: This is the most obvious difference. While spider sizes vary greatly, tarantulas are generally significantly larger than most other spiders, with leg spans often exceeding several inches.
- Hairs (Setae): Tarantulas possess urticating hairs on their abdomens. These barbed hairs are easily detached and can cause irritation or allergic reactions in humans and other animals if they come into contact with skin or eyes. This is a crucial defense mechanism for tarantulas.
- Fangs: While all spiders have fangs, tarantulas possess notably large and prominent fangs, which are used to subdue prey. The size and shape of the fangs can vary depending on the species.
- Lifestyle: Many tarantulas are terrestrial (ground-dwelling), building burrows or utilizing natural crevices as shelter. While some spiders are also terrestrial, this is a strong characteristic of many tarantula species.
- Behavior: Generally, tarantulas are less aggressive than many smaller spider species. They often rely on their size and urticating hairs as a primary defense mechanism rather than a quick, aggressive bite.
Are all big hairy spiders tarantulas?
No. While size and hairiness are strong indicators, they aren't definitive. Many other spider species are large and hairy, but lack the other key characteristics of tarantulas, like urticating hairs and specific fang structure. It's crucial to accurately identify spiders using reliable resources, not just visual appearance.
How dangerous are tarantulas?
While their large size and hairy appearance can be intimidating, most tarantula species are not considered dangerous to humans. Their bites are rarely fatal and often compared to a wasp sting in terms of pain. The real danger lies in the urticating hairs, which can cause significant irritation. Always handle tarantulas with care and respect.
What is the difference between a tarantula and a huntsman spider?
Huntsman spiders are often mistaken for tarantulas due to their size and hairy legs. However, huntsman spiders belong to the family Sparassidae and lack the urticating hairs and the generally robust build of tarantulas. Huntsman spiders are also typically faster and more aggressive.
What is the lifespan of a tarantula compared to other spiders?
Tarantulas are known for their relatively long lifespans compared to many other spider species. Female tarantulas can live for many years, sometimes exceeding a decade, while males generally have shorter lifespans. The lifespan varies greatly depending on the species and environmental factors.
Conclusion:
While tarantulas are undeniably spiders, their unique characteristics—size, urticating hairs, large fangs, and specific behaviors—set them apart. Accurate identification requires more than just visual assessment. Remember to always approach any spider with caution and respect, and never attempt to handle a spider unless you are certain of its identity and have the appropriate knowledge and safety measures in place.
