What chemical defense mechanism does the A. seemanni utilize when feeling threatened or stressed?
Answer
The use of urticating hairs.
The primary chemical defense mechanism employed by the *Aphonopelma seemanni*, common among many New World tarantulas, involves the deployment of urticating hairs. These fine, irritating hairs are not utilized unless the spider perceives a significant threat or feels severely stressed. The process involves the spider using its hind legs to actively flick these hairs from specialized patches located on its abdomen. If these hairs come into contact with exposed skin, they can cause localized irritation and itching, posing a more serious risk if inhaled into the respiratory system or if they contact sensitive areas like the eyes. Biting is noted as a secondary or last resort defense, not the first line of action.
Related Questions
What specific location on the legs features the prominent white or cream-colored banding of the Aphonopelma seemanni?What chemical defense mechanism does the A. seemanni utilize when feeling threatened or stressed?What is the typical lifespan disparity noted between mature female and male Aphonopelma seemanni?To what specific type of terrestrial environment is the native Aphonopelma seemanni adapted in Central America?What substrate depth is generally recommended in an A. seemanni enclosure to facilitate natural burrowing behavior?Which common name for the A. seemanni is deemed the most taxonomically descriptive regarding its visual markings?How does the A. seemanni physically eject its urticating hairs toward an actual or perceived threat?When setting up an enclosure for the terrestrial Aphonopelma seemanni, what spatial dimension should be prioritized over vertical height?What is the characteristic color contrast observed on the cephalothorax and abdomen versus the leg markings of the A. seemanni?Why is the Zebra Tarantula sometimes recommended as suitable for individuals new to keeping tarantulas?