TARANTULAE Meaning and
Definition
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Tarantulae is the plural form of "tarantula," which refers to a large and hairy spider belonging to the family Theraphosidae. These arachnids are commonly found in tropical and subtropical regions worldwide. The term "tarantulae" is derived from the Italian word "tarantola," which originally referred to a species of wolf spider found in the region of Taranto, Italy.
Tarantulae are distinguishable by their robust bodies, eight legs, and multiple sets of eyes. They commonly range in size from around 2-3 inches to giants reaching up to 12 inches in leg span. Their bodies are covered in dense hair, which helps in sensing vibrations and provides camouflage. Tarantulae are known for the venom they inject into their prey, predominantly insects and other small animals, to immobilize and digest them.
Despite their intimidating appearance, most tarantulae are not considered harmful to humans. While they possess fangs and venom, their bites are typically no more dangerous than a bee sting, causing minimal pain and usually resolving without complications. However, some species do possess potent venom that can cause more severe reactions in sensitive individuals.
Tarantulae are fascinating creatures and are often kept as exotic pets. Their unique characteristics and behavior make them intriguing subjects for research and study. In certain cultures, tarantulas are also closely associated with myths and traditions. Overall, tarantulae play an important ecological role in maintaining insect populations and are a captivating part of the natural world.
Common Misspellings for TARANTULAE
Etymology of TARANTULAE
The word "tarantulae" is derived from the Latin word "tarantula", which refers to a large, venomous spider. The Latin term "tarantula" itself is believed to have originated from "tarantum", the name of a town in southern Italy, specifically in the region of Apulia. In the past, it was believed that the bite of a tarantula spider caused a condition known as "tarantism", a type of hysteria. This condition was supposedly cured by a specific dance called the "tarantella", which is also named after the same town. Over time, the term "tarantulae" has been used to generally refer to a group of different spider species characterized by their large size and hairy bodies.
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