Spider information

Spiders are arachnids, a class of arthropods that also includes scorpions, ticks, and mites. They are found in almost every habitat on earth, from the Arctic to the tropics, and are among the most diverse groups of animals on the planet, with over 45,000 described species.

Some common characteristics of spiders include:

• Eight legs

• Two main body parts: the cephalothorax (head and thorax combined) and the abdomen

• No wings or antennae

• Fangs that inject venom to subdue prey

• Spinnerets on the abdomen for producing silk

Spiders are carnivorous and primarily feed on insects and other small arthropods. They use their silk for a variety of purposes, such as building webs for trapping prey, creating shelters, and producing egg sacs.

While some spider bites can be harmful to humans, most species are not dangerous and are actually beneficial in controlling pest populations. Some common spider species include the black widow, brown recluse, and tarantula.