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Lycosa tarantula
- Common English Name: Tarantula wolf spider
- Local Name: Tarantola (Italy)
- Distribution: Southern Europe, particularly Italy
- Notes: Historically associated with the tarantella dance in Italy.
Wikipedia
The Wolf Spiders of the Word 
By Volker W. Framenau
The family Lycosidae, commonly known as wolf spiders, encompasses a vast number of species distributed worldwide. As of December 29, 2013, there were numerous described species across various genera.
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In North America, north of Mexico, there are approximately 240 species in 21 genera.
In the Western Mediterranean, particularly in the Maghreb region (Tunisia, Algeria, and Morocco), 24 species have been described or recorded.
Wolf spiders, belonging to the family Lycosidae, are globally distributed and known for their hunting prowess. Below is a selection of notable species, along with their scientific names, common English names, and local names where available :
Venatrix furcillata
- Common English Name: Little wolf spider
- Local Name: Little wolf spider (Australia)
- Distribution: Eastern Australia
- Notes: Found in suburban gardens and lawns; known to migrate to communal webs.
Pardosa amentata
- Common English Name: Thin-legged wolf spider
- Local Name: Dünnbeinige Wolfsspinne (Germany)
- Distribution: Europe
- Notes: Common in moist habitats like riverbanks and meadows.
Alopecosa fabrilis
- Common English Name: Garden wolf spider
- Local Name: Garten-Wolfspinne (Germany)
- Distribution: Europe
- Notes: Often found in gardens and open woodlands.
Pirata piraticus
- Common English Name: Pirate wolf spider
- Local Name: Piratenspinne (Germany)
- Distribution: Europe
- Notes: Inhabits wetlands and is known for its swimming ability.
Arctosa cinerea
- Common English Name: Beach wolf spider
- Local Name: Strandwolfspinne (Germany)
- Distribution: Europe
- Notes: Found in sandy coastal areas; camouflages well with its environment.
Lycosa erythrognatha
- Common English Name: Red fang wolf spider
- Local Name: Aranha-de-ferradura (Brazil)
- Distribution: South America
- Notes: Recognizable by its reddish chelicerae; found in various habitats.
Lycosa singoriensis
- Common English Name: Russian wolf spider
- Local Name: Russische Wolfsspinne (Germany)
- Distribution: Eastern Europe, Central Asia
- Notes: One of the largest wolf spider species; inhabits steppes and semi-deserts.
Lycosa leuckarti
- Common English Name: Australian wolf spider
- Local Name: Australian wolf spider (Australia)
- Distribution: Australia
- Notes: Common in open forests and grasslands; known for carrying its egg sac attached to spinnerets.
Tarantulas : Fascinating Facts About These Giant Spiders
Tarantulas are some of the most captivating and misunderstood creatures in the spider family. Known for their intimidating size and unique behaviors, these arachnids spark curiosity in many. This article dives deep into several fascinating aspects of tarantulas, from their size comparison with other spiders, their diet, lifespan, and habitat, to their intriguing eyes. Let's explore the world of tarantulas !
Tarantula vs. Wolf Spider :
Size Comparison / lycosa tarantula size
When it comes to size, tarantulas are often considered the giants of the arachnid world. However, wolf spiders can also grow quite large. Tarantulas can have leg spans ranging from 4 to 12 inches, depending on the species, with the Goliath Birdeater being the largest at around 12 inches across. In comparison, wolf spiders are smaller, typically measuring 1 to 4 inches, with their legs extended. While the wolf spider is known for its agility and speed, the tarantula stands out because of its sheer size and powerful defensive behaviors.
What Do Tarantulas Eat ?
Tarantulas are carnivorous and feed primarily on insects. Their diet includes crickets, grasshoppers, cockroaches, and beetles, but they are also capable of eating larger prey such as small rodents, birds, and lizards. Tarantulas hunt by using their venomous fangs to immobilize and paralyze their prey, before using their chelicerae (mouthparts) to tear it apart and consume it. While they can go for extended periods without food, tarantulas generally need to eat once every few weeks, depending on their age and species.
How Long Do Tarantulas Live ?
The lifespan of a tarantula depends on its species, but tarantulas are known for their longevity. Female tarantulas typically live much longer than males. Female tarantulas can live anywhere from 10 to 30 years, with some species, like the Mexican Red Knee, living up to 30 years. Males, on the other hand, usually live only 3 to 7 years, as their primary goal is to reproduce. The shorter lifespan of males is linked to the fact that they die soon after mating.
Where Do Tarantulas Live ?
Tarantulas are found in a wide range of habitats around the world, primarily in tropical and subtropical regions. They are most commonly associated with rainforests but can also be found in deserts, grasslands, and even some temperate climates. Tarantulas burrow underground or hide in crevices for shelter, and they often create elaborate webs to trap prey. Some species, like the African Horned Tarantula, prefer to live in the trees, using their webs for both shelter and hunting grounds.
Tarantula Eyes: What Do They See ?
A unique feature of tarantulas is their set of eight eyes, which is relatively small compared to their body size. While they don't rely heavily on vision, they use their eyes to detect changes in light and movement. Their primary sense for hunting and navigation is their sensitive hairs and vibrations, which help them detect prey and threats. Tarantulas have poor eyesight, typically only able to detect shadows or movement from a distance, but their keen sense of touch more than compensates for this limitation.
Tarantulas, while formidable predators themselves, have a number of natural enemies. "Name three predators of the tarantula" – these include birds, such as hawks and owls, small mammals like mongooses, and reptiles, particularly certain species of snakes. These predators often target tarantulas for their protein-rich bodies, despite the tarantula’s ability to defend itself with venom and sharp fangs.
Lycosa singoriensis
Lycosa singoriensis, commonly known as the desert wolf spider, is a remarkable species of wolf spider that inhabits a variety of ecosystems, particularly arid regions and sandy terrains. This species is renowned for its impressive hunting skills, agility, and distinctive appearance. Lycosa singoriensis plays a vital role in controlling insect populations, making it an essential part of its native ecosystem.
Taxonomy and Classification :
- Kingdom: Animalia
- Phylum: Arthropoda
- Class: Arachnida
- Order: Araneae
- Family: Lycosidae
- Genus: Lycosa
- Species: Lycosa singoriensis
Lycosa singoriensis belongs to the Lycosidae family, which is commonly known for its fast-moving, ground-dwelling nature. It shares similarities with other wolf spiders, such as its predatory behavior, and is one of the largest species within its genus.
Habitat and Distribution :
Lycosa singoriensis is primarily found in arid and semi-arid environments, especially in North Africa and parts of the Middle East. It thrives in sandy soils, desert dunes, and shrubland areas. These spiders construct burrows or occupy natural cavities in the ground, where they remain camouflaged and ready to ambush prey. Their excellent adaptation to harsh climates makes them a key species in maintaining the balance of local ecosystems.
Physical Characteristics :
- Size: Females can reach up to 3 cm in body length, with a leg span of approximately 7 cm.
- Coloration: Typically brown or grayish with darker markings that help it blend into its desert surroundings.
- Distinctive Features: Lycosa singoriensis has long, robust legs and a powerful set of mandibles, ideal for capturing and subduing prey. The eyes are arranged in a characteristic pattern, allowing it to have an extensive field of vision.
Behavior and Hunting :
Lycosa singoriensis is a predatory species, relying on speed and stealth to capture its prey. Unlike some spiders that build webs to catch food, Lycosa singoriensis is an active hunter. It hunts by ambushing smaller insects, including beetles, ants, and grasshoppers, which it captures with its powerful chelicerae. These spiders are also known for their agility, swiftly chasing down and subduing prey that attempts to escape.
Lycosa singoriensis is a terrestrial spider, meaning it is adapted for life on the ground, where it roams in search of food and mates. Its hunting techniques include quick bursts of speed, aided by its long, strong legs, which help it move rapidly across the sand.
Reproduction :
Lycosa singoriensis engages in sexual reproduction, with males performing a complex courtship ritual to attract females. After mating, females produce a sac containing numerous eggs, which they guard until the spiderlings hatch. The young spiders stay with the mother for a short period before dispersing to find their own territories.
Ecological Role :
As a carnivorous spider, Lycosa singoriensis plays an essential role in controlling the populations of various insect species. By preying on pests, it helps maintain the balance of the ecosystem and prevents overpopulation of certain species. Additionally, this species serves as prey for other larger predators, contributing to the food web.
Conservation Status :
Currently, Lycosa singoriensis is not considered threatened, but habitat destruction and climate change could pose future risks. As desert environments are increasingly affected by human activity, the species’ natural habitat may be disrupted, which could impact its populations in the long term.
Key Facts :
- Diet: Insects, including beetles, grasshoppers, and ants
- Habitat: Sandy, arid regions; burrows in the ground
- Size: Females up to 3 cm in body length
- Behavior: Active hunter, ambushing prey
- Role: Pest control and food source for larger predators
=> Lycosa singoriensis is a fascinating and important species within the Lycosidae family. Its role as an efficient predator and its unique adaptations to arid environments make it an essential part of its ecosystem. Understanding this spider’s behavior, ecology, and conservation needs helps in promoting the protection of its habitat and ensuring the continued balance of desert ecosystems.
