DOCSLIB.ORG

Vitamin D3 in the Hemolymph of Goliath Birdeater Spiders (Theraphosa Blondi)

Total Page：16

File Type：pdf, Size：1020Kb

Download full-text PDF Read full-text
Vitamin D3 in the Hemolymph of Goliath Birdeater Spiders (Theraphosa Blondi) Journal of Zoo and Wildlife Medicine 40(2): 344–346, 2009 Copyright 2009 by American Association of Zoo Veterinarians VITAMIN D3 IN THE HEMOLYMPH OF GOLIATH BIRDEATER SPIDERS (THERAPHOSA BLONDI) Trevor T. Zachariah, D.V.M., M.S., and Mark A. Mitchell, D.V.M., Ph.D. Abstract: Vitamin D3 is an important vitamin in vertebrates. This fat-soluble vitamin is associated with the regulation of many physiologic processes, most importantly calcium metabolism. The presence or importance of vitamin D3 has been determined in only a handful of invertebrate species. In this study, hemolymph was collected from six wild-caught, subadult goliath birdeater spiders (Theraphosa blondi) and analyzed for the presence of 25(OH)-vitamin D3, the precursor to the active form of vitamin D3. The metabolite 25(OH)-vitamin D3 was detected in all of the spiders (mean: 5.7 nmol/L, SD: 1.5 nmol/L, range: 3–7 nmol/L). The method by which spiders acquire vitamin D3 is unknown. It is possible, though unlikely, that they synthesize it via exposure to ultraviolet radiation. Many of the invertebrate species upon which theraphosid spiders prey are not known to have high circulating levels of vitamin D3 or its precursors. However, dietary intake is a possible means of vitamin D3 acquisition in this study. Key words: Hemolymph, spider, Theraphosidae, Theraphosa blondi,vitaminD3, 25(OH)-vitamin D3. BRIEF COMMUNICATION Calcium, Fluker Farms, Port Allen, Louisiana 70767, USA) until being offered to the spider. The physiology of spiders has been studied The cricket food also contained cholecalciferol, a extensively. Much of the research has been precursor molecule to 25(OH)-vitamin D .The focused on elucidating the metabolic processes 3 temperature and humidity in the enclosures were of these animals as a comparative method to maintained at approximately 23.9 C(75F) and further explain vertebrate physiology. However, a u u 80%, respectively. The spiders were held under literature search reveals a conspicuous absence in these conditions for 12 wk before diagnostic this body of work in the area of calcium and samples were obtained. vitamin D metabolism. This pilot study was 3 An intracardiac hemolymph sample was col- conducted to confirm the presence of vitamin D 3 lected from each of the T. blondi according to the in the goliath birdeater spider (Theraphosa following procedure: each spider was placed into blondi). a square, 3-L plastic storage container that was Six (four male and two female) wild-caught, modified into a gas anesthetic chamber. The subadult T. blondi were obtained from an container was customized by drilling a hole on invertebrate importer in Florida (LASCO, Na- one side and inserting an endotracheal tube ples, Florida 34119, USA). The spiders were adapter. Each spider was anesthetized with 5% housed in rectangular, 5.7-L plastic storage isoflurane (Isoflo, Abbott Laboratories, North containers with screen tops. A 50:50 mixture of Chicago, Illinois 60064, USA) at a flow rate of potting soil and vermiculite was used for the 1 L/min oxygen. Once the spider had lost its substrate. The spiders had ad lib access to ability to right itself, it was removed from the chlorinated tap water and were fed five adult anesthetic chamber and weighed. A 26-gauge, crickets weekly. The crickets had access to a high- 1.9-cm (3/4-inch) needle fastened to a 3-ml calcium cricket food and water source (High syringe was used to collect an intracardiac Calcium Cricket Diet and Cricket Quencher hemolymph sample. Collection of each sample was accomplished by inserting the needle at approximately a 45u angle through the exoskel- From the Department of Veterinary Clinical Scienc- eton at the midpoint of the dorsal midline of the es, School of Veterinary Medicine, Louisiana State opisthosoma. A total of 0.5 ml hemolymph was University, Baton Rouge, Louisiana 70803, USA. collected from each individual. Hemolymphstasis Present addresses (Mitchell): Department of Veterinary was accomplished by applying a small amount of Clinical Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nexaband glue (Veterinary Products Laborato- University of Illinois, Urbana, Illinois 61802, USA; ries, Phoenix, Arizona 85067, USA) to the (Zachariah): Chicago Zoological and Aquatic Animal Residency, Brookfield, Illinois 60513, USA. Corres- collection site. The spiders were recovered in pondence should be directed to Dr. Zachariah 100% oxygen, and recovery from anesthesia was ([email protected]). uneventful. 344 ZACHARIAH AND MITCHELL—VITAMIN D3 IN A THERAPHOSID 345 Each sample was placed in a lithium heparin metabolism in these species are not well studied. Microtainer tube (Becton Dickinson, Franklin Spiders probably require calcium to ensure Lakes, New Jersey 07417, USA) and centrifuged striated muscle function and various other for 10 min at 1,411 g. Once the sample was physiological cell processes. In a study involving centrifuged, the supernatant was removed and T. blondi and Chilean rose spiders (Grammostola frozen in a Cryovial (Nalge Nunc International, rosea), it was found that hemolymph calcium Rochester, New York 14625, USA) at 262.2uC levels were greater (11.9 6 1.7 mg/dL and 16.9 6 (280uF). The samples were then transported on 1.8 mg/dL, respectively)13 than those of typical frozen gel packs to the Endocrine Service of the mammals (e.g., dogs and cats, 9.0–11.5 mg/dL).8 Diagnostic Center for Population and Animal For the theraphosid spider Eurypelma californi- Health at Michigan State University for detection cum (nomen dubium, unknown species probably 9 of 25(OH)-vitamin D3 by quantitative radioim- belonging to the genus Aphonopelma ), hemo- munoassay analysis. lymph calcium levels have also been found to be The metabolite 25(OH)-vitamin D3 was detect- greater than those in mammals (15.76 6 0.52 mg/ ed in all six spiders. The Shapiro-Wilk test was dL).10 These findings suggest that theraphosid used to assess the normality of the data, and the spiders require relatively high levels of calcium, data were found to follow a Gaussian distribu- although the method by which they achieve them tion (P 5 0.212). Measures of central tendency is unknown. and dispersion were then calculated: mean, The 25(OH)-vitamin D3 levels measured in 5.7 nmol/L; SD, 1.5 nmol/L; and range, 3– these theraphosid spiders was low in comparison 7 nmol/L. The significance level was set at a 5 to mammalian (dog: 60–215 nmol/L, cat: 65– 0.05. The statistical analysis was performed using 170 nmol/L)6 and reptilian (red-eared slider a commercial software package (SPSS 15.0, SPSS turtle: 31.4 6 13.2 nmol/L)1 vertebrates. Verte- Inc., Chicago, Illinois 60606, USA). brates have the opportunity to store calcium in To the authors’ knowledge, this is the first time their skeletons. The absence of such a storage that vitamin D3 has been measured in any species depot in spiders may be associated with the of spider. Limited studies in other taxa reveal that higher circulating levels of calcium in the body. there may be some variability in vitamin D levels This physiologic finding may also play a role in in invertebrates. Vitamin D3 and a vitamin D- the intertaxa vitamin D3 level differences detect- dependent calcium binding protein have been ed. These facts also suggest that vitamin D3 may found in two species of terrestrial snails.12 Seven play a minimal or no role in calcium metabolism species of insect, both adults and larvae, were in spiders. 4 found to have no detectable levels of vitamin D3. Most spiders prey on arthropods, although It has been stated that there is no evidence that theraphosid spiders will occasionally capture and 7 insects require vitamin D3. Also, it has been eat vertebrates. Due to the previously stated lack shown that vitamin D2 may have a role in the of vitamin D3 in insects, it is unlikely that wild nutrition of copepods.5 spiders ingest the compound from their prey. In Vitamin D3 plays an important role in calcium captivity, however, the insect prey may serve as a metabolism of vertebrate animals. Whether it is source of vitamin D3 if they are offered commer- absorbed from the diet or synthesized in the skin cial diets with cholecalciferol. From this study, it due to ultraviolet-B (UVB) radiation exposure, is not possible to determine whether the crickets the liver hydroxylates the compound to 25(OH)- or the spiders possess 25-hydroxylase, but one of vitamin D3 via the enzyme 25-hydroxylase. This the species may convert cholecalciferol to compound is either stored in adipose tissue when 25(OH)-vitamin D3. Where the hydroxylation of calcium levels are adequate, or hydroxylated by cholecalciferol occurs, and whether it is further the kidneys to form 1,25(OH)2-vitamin D3 when processed to 1,25(OH)2-vitamin D3, remains to be increased calcium absorption is required. The investigated. 1,25(OH)2-vitamin D3, also known as calcitriol, is Spiders may synthesize vitamin D3; however, the active form of vitamin D3 and is responsible the process may not be similar to that previously for promoting calcium uptake and transport in described for vertebrate species. Anecdotally, the body. In addition to this function, vitamin D3 theraphosid spiders in captivity are usually kept promotes various other metabolic functions in without the presence of a source of UVB, and tissues throughout the body.3 these animals appear to be clinically normal. The Many invertebrates possess tissues containing spiders in this study were kept without UVB calcium, though the mechanisms of calcium radiation and still maintained the reported 346 JOURNAL OF ZOO AND WILDLIFE MEDICINE calcium levels. Many species of theraphosid 4.
Load more

Recommended publications
  • The First Haemolymph Analysis of Nhandu Chromatus Tarantulas — Biochemical Parameters
    DOI: 10.1515/FV-2016-0029 FOLIA VETERINARIA, 60, 3: 47—53, 2016 THE FIRST HAEMOLYMPH ANALYSIS OF NHANDU CHROMATUS TARANTULAS — BIOCHEMICAL PARAMETERS Muir, R. E., Halán, M. Department of Parasitology, University of Veterinary Medicine and Pharmacy Komenskeho 73, 041 81 Košice The Slovak Republic [email protected] ABSTRACT originally proposed for this investigation are based on 2 separate feeding regimes, differing in terms of feed Tarantulas are a relatively unstudied category of quantity and the effect on the aforementioned biochemi- invertebrate which are popular with hobbyists and in- cal parameters. Upon receipt of the biochemical results creasingly used in laboratory research. As their pres- from the first sampling, it became apparent that unex- ence in the veterinary setting is limited, very little is pected correlations could be made between the stage of known about the biochemistry of their haemolymph as ecdysis, susceptibility to anaesthesia and the total pro- obtained by in house sampling and analysis. A handful tein levels in the haemolymph. Those that were due to of studies have been performed to attempt to establish shed imminently, indicated by cessation in feeding, had a normal range for certain parameters in healthy mem- recognisably and significantly higher total protein levels bers of a few particular species, but that is the extent of and reached a better level of anaesthesia in less time. Ad- the current research. In this study, 12 tarantulas of the ditional samplings are planned in the future to specify Nhandu chromatus species purchased as immature sib- more definitive parameters. The observations made in- lings and kept under standardised conditions for 2.5 advertently so far could constitute novel information years were anaesthetised with isoflurane and had 0.2 ml and be practically useful to tarantula enthusiasts and of haemolymph sampled and analysed for: total protein, anaesthetists, and therefore, potentially of high clinical glucose, calcium, phosphorous and uric acid.
    [Show full text]
  • Activities for the Tarantula Scientist
    Activities for The Tarantula Scientist These activities were created by Leigh Lewis, a grade school teacher in Wynne, Arkansas. “Picture a Tarantula” is an activity that builds 1 observation skills. Students will listen to a description of a goliath birdeater tarantula and draw a picture from that description. This activity points out the importance of detail. It links science, reading/literacy, and art in a way that students love! “Classify, Classify, Classify” is an activity that can 2 be utilized in a variety of ways. Students will hear how living organisms are classified, and then they will look at the animals pictured in the book and decide how they should be classified. This is truly an adventure! Once students collect the data, they will organize the information in tables and graphs. Students can do this individually, or in groups. This activity links math, science and technology. “Creature Search” is an activity that combines 3 science, writing and reading. Students will be given a topic from The Tarantula Scientist to research. They will then do a written and oral report. As an added bonus students will be learning about many fascinating plants and animals that live in the jungles and rainforests that are rapidly being destroyed. The “Spider Crossword Puzzle” is a fun conclusion 4 to a great book. Students will read The Tarantula Scientist, and then put all of their newly acquired knowledge to use by filling in the puzzle. THE TARANTULA SCIENTIST by Sy Montgomery is published by Houghton Mifflin Company ISBN 0-618-14799-3 www.houghtonmifflinbooks.com PROJECT 1 Picture a Tarantula GRADE LEVEL: 4th-8th OBJECTIVE: TSW listen to a description of a Goliath birdeater tarantula from The Tarantula Scientist and tsw create a picture from the description.
    [Show full text]
  • Contact: Sondra Katzen 708.688.8351 [email protected]
    Contact: Sondra Katzen 708.688.8351 [email protected] Amazing Arachnids Fact Sheet Opening Amazing Arachnids is open from Saturday, May 26, through Monday, September 3. It features two sections—Art and Science of Arachnids and Mission Safari Maze . Purpose ° To provide Brookfield Zoo guests with an engaging and interactive experience where they can discover the incredible attributes of arachnids and how the species has played an important role in our lives. ° To inspire guests to gain a better understanding of arachnids and other species that could then lead to a greater appreciation for them. Location Brookfield Zoo’s West Mall Art and Science of Arachnids Art and Science of Arachnids invites guests to discover the cultural connections of these eight-legged creatures that have weaved their way into a variety of genres, including music, art, folklore, medicine, conservation, film, and literature. In addition to engaging, hands-on interactives, the exhibit features 100 live arachnids found around the world, making it the largest public collection of arachnids in North America. ° Arachnid Species —the live collection is primarily composed of tarantulas and scorpions with a sampling of whip scorpions and true spiders. Species include: Blue femur beauty tarantula Mahogany tree spider Brazilian blue violet tarantula Metallic pink toe tarantula Brazilian pink bloom tarantula Mexican fireleg tarantula Burgundy goliath birdeater Mexican red knee tarantula Columbian pumpkin patch tarantula Mozambique golden baboon tarantula Chaco golden knee
    [Show full text]
  • Tarantulas and Social Spiders
    Tarantulas and Social Spiders: A Tale of Sex and Silk by Jonathan Bull BSc (Hons) MSc ICL Thesis Presented to the Institute of Biology of The University of Nottingham in Partial Fulfilment of the Requirements for the Degree of Doctor of Philosophy The University of Nottingham May 2012 DEDICATION To my parents… …because they both said to dedicate it to the other… I dedicate it to both ii ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS First and foremost I would like to thank my supervisor Dr Sara Goodacre for her guidance and support. I am also hugely endebted to Dr Keith Spriggs who became my mentor in the field of RNA and without whom my understanding of the field would have been but a fraction of what it is now. Particular thanks go to Professor John Brookfield, an expert in the field of biological statistics and data retrieval. Likewise with Dr Susan Liddell for her proteomics assistance, a truly remarkable individual on par with Professor Brookfield in being able to simplify even the most complex techniques and analyses. Finally, I would really like to thank Janet Beccaloni for her time and resources at the Natural History Museum, London, permitting me access to the collections therein; ten years on and still a delight. Finally, amongst the greats, Alexander ‘Sasha’ Kondrashov… a true inspiration. I would also like to express my gratitude to those who, although may not have directly contributed, should not be forgotten due to their continued assistance and considerate nature: Dr Chris Wade (five straight hours of help was not uncommon!), Sue Buxton (direct to my bench creepy crawlies), Sheila Keeble (ventures and cleans where others dare not), Alice Young (read/checked my thesis and overcame her arachnophobia!) and all those in the Centre for Biomolecular Sciences.
    [Show full text]
  • TARANTULA Araneae Family: Theraphosidae Genus: 113 Genera
    TARANTULA Araneae Family: Theraphosidae Genus: 113 genera Range: World wide Habitat tropical and desert regions; greatest concentration S America Niche: Terrestrial or arboreal, carnivorous, mainly nocturnal predators Wild diet: as grasshoppers, crickets and beetles but some of the larger species may also eat mice, lizards and frogs or even small birds Zoo diet: Life Span: (Wild) varies with species and sexes, females tend to live long lives (Captivity) Sexual dimorphism: Location in SF Zoo: Children’s Zoo - Insect Zoo APPEARANCE & PHYSICAL ADAPTATIONS: Tarantulas are large, long-legged, long-living spiders, whose entire body is covered with short hairs, which are sensitive to vibration. They have eight simple eyes arranged in two distinct rows but rely on their hairs to send messages of local movement. These spiders do not spin a web but catch their prey by pursuit, killing them by injecting venom through their fangs. The injected venom liquefies their prey, allowing them to suck out the innards and leave the empty exoskeleton. The chelicerae are vertical and point downward making it necessary to raise its front end to strike forward and down onto its prey. Tarantulas have two pair of book lungs, which are situated on the underside of the abdomen. (Most spiders have only one pair). All tarantulas produce silk through the two or four spinnerets at the end of their abdomen (A typical spiders averages six). New World Tarantulas vs. Old World Tarantulas: New World species have urticating hairs that causes the potential predator to itch and be distracted so the tarantula can get away. They are less aggressive than Old World Tarantulas who lack urticating hairs and their venom is less potent.
    [Show full text]
  • Husbandry Manual for Exotic Tarantulas
    Husbandry Manual for Exotic Tarantulas Order: Araneae Family: Theraphosidae Author: Nathan Psaila Date: 13 October 2005 Sydney Institute of TAFE, Ultimo Course: Zookeeping Cert. III 5867 Lecturer: Graeme Phipps Table of Contents Introduction 6 1 Taxonomy 7 1.1 Nomenclature 7 1.2 Common Names 7 2 Natural History 9 2.1 Basic Anatomy 10 2.2 Mass & Basic Body Measurements 14 2.3 Sexual Dimorphism 15 2.4 Distribution & Habitat 16 2.5 Conservation Status 17 2.6 Diet in the Wild 17 2.7 Longevity 18 3 Housing Requirements 20 3.1 Exhibit/Holding Area Design 20 3.2 Enclosure Design 21 3.3 Spatial Requirements 22 3.4 Temperature Requirements 22 3.4.1 Temperature Problems 23 3.5 Humidity Requirements 24 3.5.1 Humidity Problems 27 3.6 Substrate 29 3.7 Enclosure Furnishings 30 3.8 Lighting 31 4 General Husbandry 32 4.1 Hygiene and Cleaning 32 4.1.1 Cleaning Procedures 33 2 4.2 Record Keeping 35 4.3 Methods of Identification 35 4.4 Routine Data Collection 36 5 Feeding Requirements 37 5.1 Captive Diet 37 5.2 Supplements 38 5.3 Presentation of Food 38 6 Handling and Transport 41 6.1 Timing of Capture and handling 41 6.2 Catching Equipment 41 6.3 Capture and Restraint Techniques 41 6.4 Weighing and Examination 44 6.5 Transport Requirements 44 6.5.1 Box Design 44 6.5.2 Furnishings 44 6.5.3 Water and Food 45 6.5.4 Release from Box 45 7 Health Requirements 46 7.1 Daily Health Checks 46 7.2 Detailed Physical Examination 47 7.3 Chemical Restraint 47 7.4 Routine Treatments 48 7.5 Known Health Problems 48 7.5.1 Dehydration 48 7.5.2 Punctures and Lesions 48 7.5.3
    [Show full text]
  • Reproductive Biology of Uruguayan Theraphosids (Araneae, Mygalomorphae)
    2002. The Journal of Arachnology 30:571±587 REPRODUCTIVE BIOLOGY OF URUGUAYAN THERAPHOSIDS (ARANEAE, MYGALOMORPHAE) Fernando G. Costa: Laboratorio de EtologõÂa, EcologõÂa y EvolucioÂn, IIBCE, Av. Italia 3318, Montevideo, Uruguay. E-mail: [email protected] Fernando PeÂrez-Miles: SeccioÂn EntomologõÂa, Facultad de Ciencias, Igua 4225, 11400 Montevideo, Uruguay ABSTRACT. We describe the reproductive biology of seven theraphosid species from Uruguay. Species under study include the Ischnocolinae Oligoxystre argentinense and the Theraphosinae Acanthoscurria suina, Eupalaestrus weijenberghi, Grammostola iheringi, G. mollicoma, Homoeomma uruguayense and Plesiopelma longisternale. Sexual activity periods were estimated from the occurrence of walking adult males. Sperm induction was described from laboratory studies. Courtship and mating were also described from both ®eld and laboratory observations. Oviposition and egg sac care were studied in the ®eld and laboratory. Two complete cycles including female molting and copulation, egg sac construction and emer- gence of juveniles were reported for the ®rst time in E. weijenberghi and O. argentinense. The life span of adults was studied and the whole life span was estimated up to 30 years in female G. mollicoma, which seems to be a record for spiders. A comprehensive review of literature on theraphosid reproductive biology was undertaken. In the discussion, we consider the lengthy and costly sperm induction, the widespread display by body vibrations of courting males, multiple mating strategies of both sexes and the absence of sexual cannibalism. Keywords: Uruguayan tarantulas, sexual behavior, sperm induction, life span Theraphosids are the largest and longest- PeÂrez-Miles et al. (1993), PeÂrez-Miles et al. lived spiders of the world. Despite this, and (1999) and Costa et al.
    [Show full text]
  • Programme and Abstracts European Congress of Arachnology - Brno 2 of Arachnology Congress European Th 2 9
    Sponsors: 5 1 0 2 Programme and Abstracts European Congress of Arachnology - Brno of Arachnology Congress European th 9 2 Programme and Abstracts 29th European Congress of Arachnology Organized by Masaryk University and the Czech Arachnological Society 24 –28 August, 2015 Brno, Czech Republic Brno, 2015 Edited by Stano Pekár, Šárka Mašová English editor: L. Brian Patrick Design: Atelier S - design studio Preface Welcome to the 29th European Congress of Arachnology! This congress is jointly organised by Masaryk University and the Czech Arachnological Society. Altogether 173 participants from all over the world (from 42 countries) registered. This book contains the programme and the abstracts of four plenary talks, 66 oral presentations, and 81 poster presentations, of which 64 are given by students. The abstracts of talks are arranged in alphabetical order by presenting author (underlined). Each abstract includes information about the type of presentation (oral, poster) and whether it is a student presentation. The list of posters is arranged by topics. We wish all participants a joyful stay in Brno. On behalf of the Organising Committee Stano Pekár Organising Committee Stano Pekár, Masaryk University, Brno Jana Niedobová, Mendel University, Brno Vladimír Hula, Mendel University, Brno Yuri Marusik, Russian Academy of Science, Russia Helpers P. Dolejš, M. Forman, L. Havlová, P. Just, O. Košulič, T. Krejčí, E. Líznarová, O. Machač, Š. Mašová, R. Michalko, L. Sentenská, R. Šich, Z. Škopek Secretariat TA-Service Honorary committee Jan Buchar,
    [Show full text]
  • VKM Rapportmal
    VKM Report 2016: 36 Assessment of the risks to Norwegian biodiversity from the import and keeping of terrestrial arachnids and insects Opinion of the Panel on Alien Organisms and Trade in Endangered species of the Norwegian Scientific Committee for Food Safety Report from the Norwegian Scientific Committee for Food Safety (VKM) 2016: Assessment of risks to Norwegian biodiversity from the import and keeping of terrestrial arachnids and insects Opinion of the Panel on Alien Organisms and Trade in Endangered species of the Norwegian Scientific Committee for Food Safety 29.06.2016 ISBN: 978-82-8259-226-0 Norwegian Scientific Committee for Food Safety (VKM) Po 4404 Nydalen N – 0403 Oslo Norway Phone: +47 21 62 28 00 Email: [email protected] www.vkm.no www.english.vkm.no Suggested citation: VKM (2016). Assessment of risks to Norwegian biodiversity from the import and keeping of terrestrial arachnids and insects. Scientific Opinion on the Panel on Alien Organisms and Trade in Endangered species of the Norwegian Scientific Committee for Food Safety, ISBN: 978-82-8259-226-0, Oslo, Norway VKM Report 2016: 36 Assessment of risks to Norwegian biodiversity from the import and keeping of terrestrial arachnids and insects Authors preparing the draft opinion Anders Nielsen (chair), Merethe Aasmo Finne (VKM staff), Maria Asmyhr (VKM staff), Jan Ove Gjershaug, Lawrence R. Kirkendall, Vigdis Vandvik, Gaute Velle (Authors in alphabetical order after chair of the working group) Assessed and approved The opinion has been assessed and approved by Panel on Alien Organisms and Trade in Endangered Species (CITES). Members of the panel are: Vigdis Vandvik (chair), Hugo de Boer, Jan Ove Gjershaug, Kjetil Hindar, Lawrence R.
    [Show full text]
  • A New Species of Ami Pérez-Miles, 2008 (Araneae: Mygalomorphae: Theraphosidae) from the Amazon Rainforest, Brazil
    Turkish Journal of Zoology Turk J Zool (2019) 43: 641-643 http://journals.tubitak.gov.tr/zoology/ © TÜBİTAK Short Communication doi:10.3906/zoo-1904-26 A new species of Ami Pérez-Miles, 2008 (Araneae: Mygalomorphae: Theraphosidae) from the Amazon rainforest, Brazil 1, 2 1 Marlus Queiroz ALMEIDA *, Lidianne SALVATIERRA , José Wellington DE MORAIS 1 Laboratory of Systematics and Ecology of Soil Invertebrates, National Research Institute of the Amazon, Manaus, Amazonas, Brazil 2 Federal University of Tocantins, Araguaína, Tocantins, Brazil Received: 16.04.2019 Accepted/Published Online: 27.08.2019 Final Version: 01.11.2019 Abstract: A new species of Ami Pérez-Miles, 2008 is described from the state of Amazonas in Brazil based on three males from Manaus. Ami valentinae sp. nov. is closely related to A. armihuariensis and A. caxiuana by the presence of a granular area on the embolus, but it differs from the first species by the presence of two retrolateral process on the male palpal tibia and differs by the latter by the morphology of the male palpal organ. A. valentinae sp. nov. is the first species of Ami reported for the Amazonas state and second species described for Brazil. Key words: Amazonia, tarantula, theraphosids, diversity The mygalomorph family Theraphosidae is currently presence of modified type I abdominal urticating setae composed of 1000 species and 147 genera (World Spider (Bertani and Guadanucci, 2013). Catalog, 2019). The largest species of spiders in the world The present work describes a new species of Ami based belong to this family and are usually called tarantulas. on three males from Manaus, Amazonas, Brazil.
    [Show full text]
  • Bird-Eaters and Chicken Spiders
    Pet Health and Happiness Is Our Primary Concern CONCISE CARE SHEETS BIRD-EATERS find more caresheets at nwzoo.com/care AND CHICKEN SPIDERS INTRO QUICK TIPS flies even while still being eaten, and The name “bird-eater” has been applied to tarantulas around the world. the discarded remains certainly attract In fact, it is simply a synonym for tarantula at this point and is often used » 75-80°F with a slight drop pests, mold and bacteria. equally for New World and Old World species. Its origin is an early 18th in temperature at night OK Century engraving by illustrator-natursalist Madame Sibylla Merian » Requires 70-90% humidity, that depicted a Suriname spider (presumably an Avicularia “pink-toed” but also good ventilation. WATERING tarantula) eating a small bird. However, “bird-eater” is most memorably » Roaches make an excellent Tarantulas obtain their water needs applied to the largest of all spiders, the three tarantula species of the large prey item. from their prey and would seldom drink genus Theraphosa including the Goliath Bird-eater, Theraphosa blondi. » Avoid contact with urtica- in the wild. However, tarantula keepers ting hairs! like to provide water dishes for two “Chicken Spider” is a name that has been often applied to a different reasons: as an emergency water source genus of huge South American tarantulas. Pamphobeteus species are should drinking become necessary and very popular in the tarantula hobby. There are more varieties being kept as a source of humidity in the cage. We and bred than science has identified and many have geographic names recommend always providing a shallow water dish full of clean water.
    [Show full text]
  • Chilean Rose Hair Tarantula
    Husbandry Data Sheet Common Name: Chilean Rose-haired Tarantula Latin Name:Grammostola rosea Family:Theraphosidae Order:Aranae/Mygalomorphae Class:Arachnida Phylum:Arthrropoda Natural History:Range: Bolivia, Argentina, and Northern Chile Habitat: In shallow burrows in forested areas; also deserts and scrublands Wild diet: Mostly large insects such as crickets, grasshoppers, beetles and roaches; will also eat smaller tarantulas and other spiders, frogs, and baby mice Life span: 15-20 years for females; 1-2 years for males Reproduction: After breeding, the female lays about 400 eggs on a silk patch; she forms a loose bag around the patch and the eggs; the eggs hatch in about two months into spiderlings; females guard the egg sack until the eggs hatch Permits Required:No Life Stage:Adult Ease of Care:Easy Housing: Temp: Humidity: Substrate:dry peat # of Animals per Exhibit:one Choose One:Solitary Compatible Species: Enclosure Description: 10 gallon tank Lighting/Photoperiod: Furniture/Props:wood hide Escape Concerns: Other Concerns/Precautions: Husbandry Diet/Frequency of Feeding:crickets / 2x week Water Source/Frequencybowl / kept full Care: Daily Enrichment:pinky mice on occation Medical/Health Concerns: Treatment: Keeper Safety: Other Concerns/Precautions: Education Do you handle species directly with the guests? :Yes If Yes or No how do you use the species with the guest:This animal is used in themed presentations both indoors and outdoors; on hand as well as in a carrier depending on presenters preference. This animal is presented to all audiences without restriction. This animal is not available for touch encounters. Conservation/Population Status: Message:1. There are more than 800 species of tarantulas worldwide.
    [Show full text]