According to Schmidt, he has experienced some stings but has never allowed one to sting him as he knows how dangerous it can be. A tarantula hawk sting is like being hit by 20,000 volts, which can cause severe damage. To avoid any injuries, it’s best to lie down and scream, which can distract you from the pain. Although the sting is painful, it doesn’t cause any harm to humans, except for the pain that lasts for a maximum of five minutes. Unlike other insect venom that causes inflammation and destroys tissues, tarantula hawk venom is different. It only causes pain and paralysis in tarantulas. The venom functions differently in tarantulas and humans due to the distinct neuromuscular junctions. While tarantulas have glutamate receptors that cause paralysis, humans only have acetylcholine receptors that don’t react to the venom. Therefore, a tarantula hawk sting is only painful for a few minutes, and it’s not dangerous to humans.
Schmidt advises against getting stung by a tarantula hawk, but he acknowledges that there are some benefits to the experience. According to him, while the sting doesn’t feel worth it, it’s still preferable to getting stung by a honeybee on the eyebrow which can result in the eye swelling up and vision being impaired for a few days. The only lasting effect of a tarantula hawk sting is the opportunity to regale future generations with the story of surviving such a sting.
Interestingly, the oldest tarantula ever recorded died at the age of 43 without ever encountering a tarantula hawk. However, she met her demise from a wasp sting.
FAQ
What are tarantula hawks?
Tarantula hawks are a type of wasp that are known for their large size and painful sting. They are found in the southwestern United States and Mexico, and they are known for their distinctive black and orange coloration.
Why are they called tarantula hawks?
Despite their name, tarantula hawks do not prey on tarantulas. Instead, they hunt and paralyze tarantulas in order to lay their eggs inside the spider’s body. Once the eggs hatch, the wasp larvae feed on the paralyzed tarantula until they are fully grown.
Are tarantula hawks dangerous?
While the sting of a tarantula hawk is considered to be one of the most painful insect stings in the world, they are not typically considered to be dangerous to humans. Tarantula hawks are not aggressive and will only sting if they feel threatened or provoked.
What is the purpose of a tarantula hawk’s sting?
The purpose of a tarantula hawk’s sting is not to defend itself, but rather to paralyze its prey. The venom of a tarantula hawk contains a neurotoxin that temporarily paralyzes the spider, allowing the wasp to lay its eggs inside the tarantula’s body without resistance.
Are tarantula hawks beneficial to the environment?
Yes, tarantula hawks are beneficial to the environment as they help control the population of tarantulas. They are also important pollinators and help to control other insect populations.
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