Tarantulas are fascinating creatures that can be found in various parts of the world. These large and hairy spiders have long been a subject of fascination and fear for many people. One of the most commonly asked questions about tarantulas is how fast they can run.
According to various sources, the average speed of a tarantula is between 8.4 inches per second and 21 inches per second, depending on the tarantula’s size, temperature, and other circumstances such as the surface. While this may not sound that fast, it is impressive considering their size. Tarantulas are deceptively quick, and they can move in several directions and switch directions quickly thanks to their hydraulic legs.
It’s important to note that various types of spiders run at different speeds, and the fastest ones have been clocked at running almost two feet per second. To be more exact, it’s 1.73 feet in a single second. Stop and think about that for a minute. While tarantulas may not be the fastest spiders around, they are still impressive in their own right.
How do Tarantulas Run?
Tarantulas are known for their slow movements and are often seen as lazy creatures. However, they are capable of running when they feel threatened or when they need to catch prey. So, how do tarantulas run?
Unlike other spiders that use their legs to run, tarantulas use a unique method called “lateral undulation.” This means that they move their legs in a wave-like motion, which propels them forward. Tarantulas have four pairs of legs, and they use their back legs to push off the ground, while their front legs help them steer.
When running, tarantulas can reach a speed of up to 21 inches per second, depending on their size, temperature, and the surface they are running on. However, most of the time, their speeds will be below 15 inches per second.
It’s important to note that tarantulas are not very agile runners and can easily lose their balance. When they run, they keep their body close to the ground to maintain stability. They also tend to run in short bursts instead of sustained runs.
Tarantula Speeds
The speed of a tarantula can also depend on its species. For example, the Brazilian wandering spider is known to be one of the fastest spiders in the world, with a top speed of up to 1.5 feet per second. On the other hand, some tarantulas are slower and more docile, making them popular as pets.
It’s important to note that while tarantulas can move quickly, they are not typically aggressive towards humans. In fact, they often prefer to retreat or hide rather than confront a potential threat. However, it’s still important to handle them with care and respect to avoid any potential harm.
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Factors Affecting the Speed Of Tarantulas
Several factors can affect the speed of a tarantula.
The size of the tarantula is one of the most significant factors that can affect its speed. Smaller tarantulas are generally faster than larger ones. For example, a small tarantula with a leg span of two inches can move at a speed of 1.5 miles per hour, while a larger tarantula with a leg span of six inches may only move at a speed of 0.5 miles per hour.
The temperature can also affect the speed of a tarantula. At lower temperatures, tarantulas run slowly because they have more control over their limbs. However, when temperatures rise above 75 degrees Fahrenheit, they lose some of the control they have over their legs, which results in faster running speeds, which can rival the speeds of the fastest spiders in the world.
Another factor that can affect the speed of a tarantula is its health. Sick or injured tarantulas may move slower than healthy ones. Additionally, the terrain and environment can also play a role in a tarantula’s speed. Tarantulas may move slower on rough terrain or in areas with obstacles that impede their movement.
Types of Tarantulas and Their Speeds
Tarantulas come in different sizes and species, and their speed can vary depending on various factors such as temperature, surface, and age. Here are some of the most common types of tarantulas and their average speeds:
| Type of Tarantula | Average Speed (inches per second) |
|---|---|
| Chilean Rose Tarantula | 8.4-10.5 |
| Mexican Redknee Tarantula | 9-12 |
| Brazilian Black Tarantula | 10-12 |
| Greenbottle Blue Tarantula | 12-15 |
| King Baboon Tarantula | 15-21 |
The Chilean Rose Tarantula, also known as the rose hair tarantula, is one of the most popular tarantulas kept as pets. It is not the fastest tarantula, but it is a great choice for beginners due to its docile nature and low maintenance. The Mexican Redknee Tarantula is another popular species known for its striking appearance and moderate speed.
The Brazilian Black Tarantula, also known as the black velvet tarantula, is a fast and aggressive species that requires experienced handlers. The Greenbottle Blue Tarantula, on the other hand, is a colorful and active species that is known for its agility.
The King Baboon Tarantula, also known as the Goliath tarantula, is one of the largest tarantula species and can reach speeds of up to 21 inches per second. It is also one of the most aggressive and defensive tarantulas, and should only be kept by experienced handlers.
Comparison of Speed of Tarantulas with Other Spiders
Tarantulas are known for their size and impressive speed. However, when compared to other spiders, the speed of tarantulas is not as impressive.
The average speed of a tarantula is between 8.4 inches per second and 21 inches per second, depending on the tarantula’s size, temperature, and other circumstances such as the surface. While this may seem fast, it is not as fast as some other spiders.
For example, the wolf spider can run at speeds up to 2 feet per second, which is equivalent to 1.36 miles per hour. This is much faster than the average speed of a tarantula.
Another spider known for its speed is the golden orb-weaver spider. These spiders can run at speeds of up to 1.5 feet per second, which is equivalent to 1.02 miles per hour. This is still faster than the average speed of a tarantula.
While tarantulas may not be the fastest spiders, they are still impressive creatures. Their hydraulic legs allow them to move in several directions and switch directions quickly. Additionally, their size and strength make them formidable predators.
Conclusion
Overall, tarantulas are deceptively quick creatures that can move at impressive speeds. The average tarantula can reach a speed of eight to twenty-one inches per second, depending on its size, surface, and temperature. While this may not sound like much, it is quite impressive considering their size and the fact that they navigate their world through touch and sense vibrations.
It is important to note that various types of spiders run at different speeds, and tarantulas are no exception. Some species may be slower or faster than others, and their speed can also be influenced by other factors such as their age and health.
Despite their reputation as slow-moving creatures, tarantulas are capable of surprising bursts of speed when they need to. This is due to their hydraulic legs, which allow them to move in several directions and switch directions quickly.
While tarantulas may not be the fastest creatures in the animal kingdom, their speed is still something to be admired. Whether you’re a tarantula enthusiast or simply curious about these fascinating creatures, learning about their speed and other abilities is sure to be an interesting experience.
