The majority of spiders found in Ukraine have venom glands that aid them in hunting. However, they generally do not pose a threat to humans. This information was provided by arachnologist Anastasia Iosypchuk from Kherson State University.
While there are species of spiders that can bite humans, most of them are too small and have weak jaws for this. The only exception is the family Uloboridae, which do not have venom glands. In our country, there are only three species of such spiders.
«All other spiders have venom glands, even the smallest ones. This is part of their hunting method,» explained Iosypchuk.
It is nearly impossible to distinguish non-venomous spiders from venomous ones. The potential danger to humans is absent if a spider cannot pierce the skin. Even large species rarely exhibit aggression unless they feel threatened. And even among well-known venomous spider species that can bite, the scientist has never encountered malicious behavior.
«Spiders will attack only if they feel threatened, for example, if touched or attempted to be destroyed,» she emphasized.
Scientists previously announced the discovery of a new species of spider - the Sydney funnel-web spider, which is recognized as the most venomous in the world. Also, a major port in Germany was temporarily closed due to the appearance of deadly spiders.
Ukrainian arachnologists explained that spiders in our country generally do not pose a danger to humans. Most species have venom glands, but they rarely attack humans unless they feel endangered. Scientists also emphasized the importance of preserving spider diversity in nature, as they play a crucial role in the ecosystem.