Despite their impressive web size, it’s best to be cautious around the Jorogumo spider. A single web can reach up to 3 feet wide, and a collective nest can span as long as 10 feet.
Andy Davis, a research scientist at the University of Georgia’s Odum School of Ecology, mentioned that larger relatives of the spider are consumed as snacks in East Asia, likened to shrimp.
The Jorogumo spider is adaptable and can thrive in various environments, from forests to gas station areas, according to Davis.
These spiders react uniquely to stressors, like noise, compared to others. Davis observed their behavior in response to stimuli, noting their ability to remain unresponsive in challenging situations.
David Nelsen, an arachnologist and biology professor, commented on the random movements of the spiders. He stated that although they can’t fly as adults, larval spiders can disperse through wind currents.
The invasive nature of the spiders could potentially disrupt native spider populations, as Nelsen’s research suggests. As a result, the ecosystem may face imbalance and potential collapse.
While there is no concrete evidence of harm to the local environment from the spider, further research is necessary to determine its long-term impact.
Source: www.nbcnews.com