Articles tagged with Arachnids
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A new study has found that living walls can significantly enhance urban biodiversity by attracting pollinators and other wildlife. The research revealed that soil-based living walls with plants in soil attracted more wildlife than those with artificial substrates, and specific plant species like ivy and honeysuckle were most effective.
A new study reveals that farmers in the Northeast are facing a growing threat of tick-borne diseases, which can be devastating to their livelihoods. The research found that farmers often experience multiple tick bites per month, with some contracting serious illnesses like Lyme carditis.
Researchers describe a new species of spider-parasitic mite found on juvenile spiders in the Butantan Institute collection in Rio de Janeiro. The larvae were collected and examined using microscopy techniques, resulting in the first description of this family in Brazil.
Researchers discovered that Clubiona spiders have unique antifreeze proteins that bind to ice crystals, preventing their growth at sub-zero temperatures. This adaptation is crucial for perennial agriculture as it could lead to reduced reliance on insecticides and combatting resistance.
A 47-year-old man from New Jersey died after consuming beef due to a tick-borne meat allergy caused by the Lone Star tick's alpha-gal sugar. Researchers identified the allergy and its link to fatal anaphylaxis, urging physicians to investigate severe abdominal pain after eating red meat in areas with high Lone Star tick populations.
Researchers found that stabilimenta, 'decorations' on spider webs, can boost a spider's ability to pinpoint the location of prey caught in its web. Numerical simulations suggest that stabilimenta enhance vibration propagation at specific angles, increasing potential detection points.
Scientists at UC Davis have discovered a new species of trapdoor spider, Aptostichus ramirezae, in California's coastal sand dunes. The study reveals that what was thought to be one species is actually two, highlighting the need for conservation efforts to protect habitats shrinking due to climate change and human development.
A tiny fossil of a sea creature from over half a billion years ago sheds light on the evolution of arthropods, revealing a brain similar to that of living crustaceans. The discovery suggests that the split between the two largest groups of arthropods was more nuanced and complicated than previously thought.
A new analysis of a 500 million-year-old fossil suggests that arachnids, including spiders and scorpions, evolved in the ocean before adapting to land. The discovery was made by studying the brain and nervous system of an ancient marine arthropod called Mollisonia symmetrica.
Four new species of dragon pseudoscorpions have been discovered in caves of South Korea, characterized by their unique dragon-like jaws. These blind creatures were identified through integrative taxonomy, providing insight into the biodiversity of cave-dwelling animals.
Researchers analyze gene expression in Retinal Determination Network to identify developmental differences between Tegenaria pagana and other spider species. The study sheds light on evolutionary adaptations in cave environments, including the genetic factors influencing eye reduction.
A new study reveals that the transition from water to land occurred multiple times in arachnids, with whole-genome duplication playing a key role in shaping traits like silk production and venom synthesis. This finding provides a foundation for future genetic and evolutionary studies.
Researchers found that slingshot spiders can listen for approaching insects before releasing their web to catapult forward and capture prey. The spiders use sound-sensitive hairs on their legs to detect the vibrations from the insects' wings, allowing them to deploy their webs in mid-air.
Researchers recommend public surveillance via online observation platforms like iNaturalist and Observation.org to detect invasive species early. By leveraging the growing number of smartphone users, scientists aim to widen the surveillance net and augment existing biosecurity frameworks.
Researchers from UC Riverside have identified the oldest known ecdysozoan, Uncus dzaugisi, dating back to the Precambrian period. This discovery fills a significant gap in understanding the origins of this diverse animal group, which includes nematodes, arthropods, and scalidophora.
A previously unstudied ancient gene called 'waist-less' is required for the development of a spider's narrow waist, according to researchers. The discovery sheds light on the formation of the distinctive body plan in spiders and highlights the function of new genes in ancient groups of animals.
Researchers investigated the interaction and genetic introgression between two closely related spider mite species in Japan's mountains. The study found extensive overlapping distribution, hybrids, and genetic introgression, shedding light on speciation in haplodiploid organisms.
A team of UConn researchers, without lab experience, published the first chromosome-level genome of a desert hairy scorpion. The study sheds light on arachnid evolution and advances comparative genomics research.
Scientists discovered a bizarre arachnid with up-armored legs in the Mazon Creek locality in Illinois, dating back to the Carboniferous period. The fossil, named Douglassarachne acanthopoda, has a unique body plan that defies categorization into known arachnid orders.
A recent study at The Hebrew University of Jerusalem documented a groundbreaking observation of phoresy involving a myrmecophile pseudoscorpion on a myrmecophile scorpion. The study reveals the first recorded instance of this symbiotic relationship, where the pseudoscorpion attaches to the scorpion for dispersal into new environments.
Two new tarantula species have been discovered in Ecuador's wilderness, but they are already threatened due to habitat destruction and human activities. The implementation of protected areas is essential to conserve these endangered species and prevent further extinction.
Asian longhorned ticks, originating from East Asia, have been detected in Ohio, with over 1 million estimated in a single pasture. Researchers stress the need for early detection and targeted control measures to manage these persistent pests.
A new species of electric blue tarantula was found in a Thai mangrove forest, showcasing its remarkable adaptability and iridescent effect. The discovery highlights the importance of taxonomy and raises concerns about the destruction of natural habitats due to deforestation.
Researchers found that shoreline spiders can move mercury pollution up the food chain to land animals like birds and bats. The study suggests these spiders can serve as a potential link between aquatic and terrestrial wildlife, informing management decisions.
Researchers created a comprehensive molecular tree of camel spiders, revealing two main groups in the Americas and their relationships. The study also found that camel spiders began evolving around 250-300 million years ago during the Permian period.
A new species of the Persian Gold Tarantula has been discovered in northwestern Iran, belonging to the genus Chaetopelma. The newly described species, Chaetopelma persianum, is an obligate burrower and inhabits high elevations in well-vegetated mountainous regions of the northern Zagros Mountains.
A novel blind daddy long-legs spider was found in Western Australia's Pilbara region, marking the first cave-adapted species reported from the continent. Another extraordinary species was also described from Réunion island, with its closest relatives found in eastern Africa.
A groundbreaking expedition in Colombia's Chocó Biogeographic Region has revealed four new tarantula species, including the exceptional trapdoor spider Ummidia solana. The discovery expands their geographical distribution and offers valuable insights into their morphological characteristics, taxonomy, and biogeography.
Male spider mites undress premature females by stripping off their skin before they molt, increasing the male's reproductive chances and reducing competition. This behavior is an example of sexual selection driving complex behaviors in arachnids.
New Zealand research reveals that males who lost at least one leg during development were more likely to grow up to be the smaller gamma males. This is because losing a leg impeded their hunting ability and may have led them to prioritize other traits like sperm count over investing in large fighting weapons.
Scientists have studied the internal parts of spider silk using an optical microscope without cutting it open. The analysis revealed that the fiber consists of at least two outer layers of lipids and numerous fibrils running in a straight, tightly packed arrangement. Understanding how to create such strong fibers is crucial for produci...
A species of jumping spider employs two lines of defense to avoid being eaten: camouflaging with plants and walking like an ant. The spiders' brilliant coloration also plays a role in their ability to blend in with their environment.
Researchers found that wolf spider species in Nebraska exhibited similar diets, with many eating the same types of prey. This suggests a complex food web where predators are not just competing for resources, but also engaging in cannibalism to regulate their populations and stabilize the ecosystem.
Researchers found that orb weaver spiders' glue proteins differ in proportion between dry and humid environments, enabling rapid adaptation to local conditions. The study sheds light on the evolution of biological glues and their potential applications in industry and medicine.
New research suggests brown widow spiders actively seek and kill nearby black widows, displacing them in parts of the southern US. Brown widow females are also larger and more fertile than black widows, with a higher reproductive success rate.
A new spider genus, Abba transversa, has been discovered in Australia, featuring distinctive dark spots and thick macrosetae on the legs. The genus was named after the Swedish pop group ABBA and is the result of a comprehensive study of orb-weaving spiders.
Researchers identified 92 proteins in the spider's venom, including cysteine-rich peptides with potential therapeutic applications. The toxins were found to be effective in paralyzing crickets and may become active ingredients for pharmaceuticals and biological insecticides.
A six-year study involving 146 patients found that antivenom reduced the risk of skin necrosis in those bitten by brown recluse spiders. Administration of the substance was safe with minimal adverse effects, particularly when given within 48 hours of the incident.
A study reveals female false widow spiders disseminate pheromones through their webs, adjusting the pH level of silk to lure males and deposit courtship-inducing pheromone components. This sophisticated method involves slowly breaking down pheromone components to attract males.
Scientists at Tianjin University have discovered a way to make silkworm silk 70% stronger than spider silk by removing its sticky outer layer and manually spinning it. This breakthrough could lead to the production of profitable high-performance artificial silks, revolutionizing industries such as biomedicine and tissue regeneration.
A study by MedUni Vienna's Department of Dermatology reveals that tick saliva inhibits the skin's defense function, making it easier for pathogens to multiply. Climate change increases the danger from ticks, which now pose a threat in higher-altitude regions of Austria and well into late autumn.
A recent study in Peru revealed a 50% decline in arthropod biomass following short periods of drought and increased precipitation. Tropical insects are sensitive to both extreme weather events, with rainfall patterns being a key factor in their decline.
Researchers explored the global spread of misinformation on spiders, finding that sensationalism and misinformation decrease when experts are consulted. Local events can quickly become international news, emphasizing the need for improved information quality at local nodes to reverberate globally.
Two new-to-science scorpions, Paruroctonus soda and P. conclusus, are described by Bay Area high school students Harper Forbes and Prakrit Jain in collaboration with the California Academy of Sciences. The species are alkali sink specialists found only in playas from Central and Southern California.
Researchers at Binghamton University discovered that orb-weaving spiders use their webs as extended auditory arrays to capture sounds, allowing them to detect prey and predators. The study found that the spiders can respond to sound levels as low as 68 decibels and localize sound sources with 100% accuracy.
New research suggests Joro spiders could colonize the entire East Coast of the US due to their ability to withstand cold temperatures. The spiders' fast metabolism and high heart rate also contribute to their potential spread.
Scientists at UCR have discovered a new species of nematode parasite that infects and kills tarantulas, exhibiting strange behaviors like walking on tiptoe and loss of fang control. The parasite, Tarantobelus jeffdanielsi, is named after actor Jeff Daniels, who saved fictional spiders in the 1990 film Arachnophobia.
Researchers studied spider mite populations to understand evolutionary patterns of reproductive isolation, finding a positive relationship between genetic distance and isolation. The study supports the prevailing view of reproductive barrier evolution in diploid animals.
Researchers studied spiders in space, where they built asymmetrical webs with the center displaced. However, when exposed to lamplight, the webs became more symmetrical, and spiders oriented themselves away from the light source.
Researchers discovered that extinct sea scorpions had air-breathing structures, including trabeculae pillars, which allowed them to breathe out of water. The findings suggest that their ancestors were semi-terrestrial and may have used their legs as paddles to swim.
A new species of jumping spider was named Jotus karllagerfeldiI after Karl Lagerfeld due to its distinctive black-and-white colors resembling the designer's style. The species was discovered in the Godeffroy Collection, alongside seven other new species found across Australia.
A recent study published in Systematic Biology confirms horseshoe crabs belong to the arachnid family tree, challenging previous hypotheses. By analyzing genetic data and considering multiple analysis methods, researchers found a high degree of confidence that horseshoe crabs are part of the arachnid radiation.
A new species of tarantula, Ceratogyrus attonitifer, was recently discovered in Angola with a distinctive 'horn' protruding from its back. The species is part of the horned baboon spider group and has been found to have a soft, characteristically longer 'horn', unlike other species in the same group.
Researchers Emily Setton and Prashant Sharma discovered that spiders and scorpions co-opted leg genes to build their heads. This genetic adaptation allows scientists to trace the evolutionary history of these animals, revealing a complex web of genetic mechanisms underlying their diversity.
A new species of arachnid resembling a spider with a tail has been discovered in 100-million-year-old amber from Myanmar. The finding provides insight into arachnid evolution and suggests that tailed descendants may still be alive today.
Researchers have identified 18 new species of pelican spiders in Madagascar, known for their unique biology and hunting behavior. The discovery sheds light on the island's biodiversity and emphasizes the need to conserve its shrinking forests and unique species.
Research reveals ground spiders produce exceptionally tough and stretchy silk, but less sticky than other piriform silks, allowing them to ambush prey quickly. The silk's unique properties are adapted to overcome larger prey and arachnids, highlighting the trade-offs in their hunting strategy.
A new Colombian tarantula species has been discovered, featuring extraordinary defensive hairs that challenge traditional attack methods. The species, Kankuamo marquezi, is named after Gabriel Garcia Marquez and honors an indigenous people from the Caribbean coast.
Researchers manipulated video footage to study male jumping spiders' behavior, finding that size assessment influences their decision-making. Larger spiders are less likely to approach smaller opponents, while smaller spiders can't scare away larger opponents.
Ticks carrying Lyme disease are increasingly found in new areas of the US, with a study suggesting southern ticks migrated northwards. Understanding these movements is crucial to identifying factors driving population shifts and reducing public health risks.