African cave spiders are a type of arachnid known as a whip spider or tailless whip scorpion, not to be confused with true spiders or vinegaroons. They are characterized by their long, thin, antenna-like legs (antenniform legs) that they use to sense their environment. While they are often found in caves, they also inhabit other dark, humid spaces like under logs or in vegetation. Despite their somewhat intimidating appearance, they are not venomous and pose no threat to humans
African Cave Spider
Key characteristics of African cave spiders:
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Antenniform Legs:
These spiders have two greatly elongated legs, modified to act as sensory feelers, which they constantly sweep around their environment.
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Nocturnal:
They are primarily active at night, hunting small insects using their pedipalps (pincer-like mouthparts) to capture and manipulate prey.
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Not Venomous:
African cave spiders do not possess venom glands and are not known to bite humans.
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Harmless to Humans:
While they can spray a mildly irritating secretion (acetic acid) when disturbed, this is not harmful to humans.
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Habitat:
They prefer dark, humid environments like caves, under logs, or in piles of vegetation.
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Diet:
They feed on small insects and other invertebrates.
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Family:
They belong to the order Amblypygi, which also includes whip spiders and tailless whip scorpions.
Misconceptions:
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Not true spiders:
They are arachnids but not true spiders, lacking spinnerets and the ability to spin webs.
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Not venomous:
Despite their appearance, they are not venomous and pose no threat to humans.
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Not aggressive:
They are generally docile and will only spray the acidic secretion when provoked.
In popular culture:
- Despite their harmless nature, African cave spiders have been featured in media with exaggerated descriptions of their danger, such as in the movie Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire according to Clark Pest Control.
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