If you’re an arthropod, molting your exoskeleton is one of those uncomfortable realities of life. (Hello, spider crab!) Just ask this Burgundy Goliath Birdeater tarantula (Theraphosa stirmi), who can rock up to an 11-inch legspan. Even this critter must discard his exoskeleton every so often — here’s some footage of this biological process in fast-forward. The action starts thirty seconds in. Also, we’re so, so sorry.
For those of you who require a palate cleanser, behold the delightful peacock spider. (And for those of you too extreme for an arachnid chaser, watch out for those urticating hairs and wear earmuffs.)
https://gizmodo.com/dear-science-please-please-name-this-dancing-spider-a-5942321
https://gizmodo.com/when-tarantulas-shoot-barbed-hair-into-your-eyes-5441726
https://gizmodo.com/spider-lives-in-womans-ear-for-five-days-everyone-on-t-5933393
[Via Mental Floss]
