Spiders are some of the most mysterious creatures on the planet. Some of them can cause fear and terror in humans, but many spiders are also incredibly interesting and unique creatures. Scientists recently discovered a surprising property in one species of spider – it is able to change its venom depending on its mood.
This spider is known as the banana crab (lat. Phoneutria nigriventer). It lives in the rainforests of South America and is considered one of the most poisonous spiders in the world. Its venom can cause serious cardiovascular, respiratory and nervous system disorders in humans.
However, as it turns out, this spider can change the composition of its venom depending on its mood. If it is frightened or angry, its venom becomes more poisonous and dangerous. But if the spider is in a calm state, its venom is less poisonous and not so dangerous to humans.
This property of the banana crab spider has generated a lot of interest among scientists. They are conducting research to find out exactly how the spider controls the composition of its venom and what mechanisms underlie this process.
One hypothesis is that the spider uses its neural apparatus to regulate the composition of its venom. It can change the level of some neurotransmitters, which influence the activity of different venom components.
Scientists have also discovered that the banana crab spider can use its venom not only to protect itself from predators, but also to hunt its prey. It can paralyze its prey with venom and then eat it.
Despite the danger this spider poses to humans, it is also an important research subject. Scientists hope that studying the mechanisms of venom regulation in spiders can lead to the creation of new drugs and medicines that will be effective in treating various diseases.
По материалам: http://www.planet-today.com/2023/06/a-deadly-spider-that-can-change-its.html