A nursery located in southern England became the scene of an unusual finding. In the midst of a shipment of olive trees from the Cordoba region of Spain, a spider was found that many experts classify as the largest in Europe.
The man, who generates a nursery in West Sussex, told the Daily Mail that his son gave the first alert sign. This, when driving a forklift, saw something to move slowly and repaired the spider to cross the courtyard slowly.
Origin of the Spider
This nurseist explained that the surprise came in a lot of olive trees near the Spanish city of Cordoba. According to HuffPost, after receiving two delivery trucks, he noticed the presence of the spider in his outdoor space.
Species identification
The British Arachnological Society identified the animal as Macrothele Calpeiana, better known as the Andalusian Tarantula. This is one of the largest existing spider specimens in Europe.
The dimensions of the tarantula impress and can reach between 8 and 10 centimeters in diameter, measured with the extended paws. Its size is often a reason for fear between those who find it.
Tarantula Behavior
This species is reputed to be aggressive when disturbed and may bite if you feel threatened. However, the bite, although painful, is not considered dangerous to humans, according to the same source.
The man who received the Tarantula described that the spider moved silently through the courtyard of the nursery. The unexpected presence generated a mixture of curiosity and concern.
Risk for humans
Experts cited by the same source stress that, despite the intimidating aspect, this tarant does not represent a fatal threat. Still, it is advisable to maintain some distance to avoid any incident.
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Alert for exotic species
This occurrence serves as a warning to the possibility of exotic or unusual species to reach new places through different types of commerce. The rigorous control of these shipments thus becomes essential.
The presence of the tarant in an area where it is not natural raises questions about the ecological risks that these specimens can cause. The introduction of invasive species is a serious environmental problem.
Early identification and communication with appropriate authorities are important steps to ensure the safety of both the people and the environment.
Can you get to Portugal?
The Andaluza Tarantula can reach Portugal, especially for the geographical and environmental closenesses with Spain, where it is already known. This species originates from the south of the Iberian Peninsula, especially from Andalusia, and Portugal, especially in the southern region (Algarve), has climatic and environmental conditions that could allow their presence.
However, so far, its occurrence in Portugal is very rare or almost nonexistent, as this spider prefers specific habitats, such as rocky areas, woods and rural areas. The possibility of arriving through the transport of plants or materials is real, as this case showed in the United Kingdom.
Protected species
Because it is legally protected due to its ecological importance, it is forbidden to capture or eliminate this species and any improper action can lead to sanctions, which makes its appearance in an even more unusual British nursery, according to El Chronicler.
Community reaction
This peculiar case caught the attention of the local community and the arachnid specialists. The episode also highlights the need for surveillance in international transport of goods, according to the.
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