Arachnology

Arachnology (from Greek: αραχνη, arachne, "spider"; and λόγος, logos, "knowledge") is the scientific study of spiders and related organisms such as scorpions, pseudoscorpions, harvestmen, collectively called arachnids. However, the study of ticks and mites is sometimes not included in arachnology, but is called Acarology. Those who study spiders are arachnologists.

Classification

Arachnologists are primarily responsible for classifying arachnids. This can be a difficult task due to the sheer number of arachnids in existence. Two species of arachnids may appear virtually identical while two others of the same species may boast very different traits. Often enough, it is only possible to discern two species by dissecting the specimen under a microscope. Although about 40,000 spider species have been described since Carl Alexander Clerck described the first spiders 250 years ago, estimates vary how many species are as yet undescribed, with some setting the number as high as 200,000. Not only do scientists find new species in the field, but lots of specimens stored in collections are waiting to be described and classified. There are museum collections of spiders already 100 years old, with specimens half macerated and discolored, still not identified. [1]

Because it is much easier to study the morphology of dead spiders than to observe their behavior in the wild, with many species living in very inaccessible places, the study of spider behavior has been much neglected.

Popular Arachnology

Around 1970 arachnids became popular pets (specifically tarantulas). This prompted sellers and breeders to appoint a second name to each type (known as a common name). Brachypelma smithi for example has become known as the Mexican redknee tarantula ever since it entered the pet trade.

See also

• Entomology
• Important publications in arachnology
• Category:Arachnologists

External links

At Wikiversity you can learn more and teach others about Arachnology at:

The Department of Arachnology

• The Arachnology Home Page - 2500 links to sites with info and pictures of spiders and other arachnids
• Tarantulas.us - Forums - Tarantula Discussion Boards and Caresheets.
• Spider Myths: Spiders are Easy to Identify
• Tarantula Photos - The largest photo gallery of all tarantula\'s species.

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