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Feeding is a grisly process known as "pre-oral digestion". The spider's fangs inject a lethal cocktail of paralysing, digestive juices into the prey, which liquefy the internal organs. Before sucking down the "ready-mix", the spider regurgitates yet more digestive juices onto its unfortunate victim. Both the Chilean Rose (Grammostola Rosea) and Mexican Red Knee (Brachypelma Smithii) are members of the 800-strong Theraphosidae family of the class Arachnida, relatives of the Scorpion. The female of the species lives to around 25 years although there are reports of a 32 year old Mexican Red Knee. Her male counterpart usually survives only 8-10 years. Reaching sexual maturity at between 8-10 years, mating is a always a risky business for the male. Mating hooks on the front legs are vital in restraining the female's venomous fangs to avoid death or wounding. Only 60% of male tarantulas survive the mating ritual - a quick getaway is essential. |
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