Tarantula Species

Tarantulas proliferate in most of the world's arid, tropical, and subtropical regions. Successful adaptation means changes in behavior and coloration.

For example, many Old World tarantulas lack irritating or "urticating" hairs found on the New World species of the Americas. The New World species eject their barbed hairs when threatened whereas the Old World species compensate with aggressive posturing and displays of force.

Explore the tarantula world (an estimated 800 to 900 species) by clicking through all eight images.