Incorporation of Urticating Hairs into Silk: A Novel Defense Mechanism in Two Neotropical Tarantulas (Araneae, Theraphosidae)

摘要: Two species of New World theraphosid ; Theraphosa leblondi from French Guiana, and Megaphobema sp . Ecuador incorporate abdominal setae into silk constructs incorporates the egg sacs mats on which they molt includes them in only The used by both these spiders are lateral region abdomens, uses mat posterior regions All tested had urticating hairs present To test possible benefits this behavior, were for urticarial effect failed to elicit any response either humans or two mouse (Mus musculus Peromyscus .) Egg sac material with without was found be an effective barrier larvae fly Megaselia scalaris T more at stopping movement M. than lacked