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Urticating hairs represent one of the primary defense mechanisms employed by New World tarantulas, causing significant discomfort to potential predators and unsuspecting tarantula keepers alike around 90% of new world Tarantulas posses them. These specialized bristles, technically called setae, vary dramatically in their irritation potential depending on the tarantula species, with some capable of causing weeks of painful itching, rashes, and in severe cases, damage to sensitive tissues. The Theraphosa genus is universally recognized as the most severe. Individual reactions to these hairs can vary considerably based on personal sensitivity, exposure history, and the specific type of urticating hair encountered, making awareness of high-risk species particularly important for tarantula enthusiasts. Tip, keep Duct Tape handy, this is a great way to remove the setae.

<blockquote data-quote="AndrewClayton" data-source="post: 236077" data-attributes="member: 28745"><p>Urticating hairs represent one of the primary defense mechanisms employed by New World tarantulas, causing significant discomfort to potential predators and unsuspecting tarantula keepers alike around 90% of new world Tarantulas posses them. These specialized bristles, technically called setae, vary dramatically in their irritation potential depending on the tarantula species, with some capable of causing weeks of painful itching, rashes, and in severe cases, damage to sensitive tissues. The Theraphosa genus is universally recognized as the most severe. Individual reactions to these hairs can vary considerably based on personal sensitivity, exposure history, and the specific type of urticating hair encountered, making awareness of high-risk species particularly important for tarantula enthusiasts. Tip, keep Duct Tape handy, this is a great way to remove the setae.</p></blockquote><p></p>

[QUOTE="AndrewClayton, post: 236077, member: 28745"] Urticating hairs represent one of the primary defense mechanisms employed by New World tarantulas, causing significant discomfort to potential predators and unsuspecting tarantula keepers alike around 90% of new world Tarantulas posses them. These specialized bristles, technically called setae, vary dramatically in their irritation potential depending on the tarantula species, with some capable of causing weeks of painful itching, rashes, and in severe cases, damage to sensitive tissues. The Theraphosa genus is universally recognized as the most severe. Individual reactions to these hairs can vary considerably based on personal sensitivity, exposure history, and the specific type of urticating hair encountered, making awareness of high-risk species particularly important for tarantula enthusiasts. Tip, keep Duct Tape handy, this is a great way to remove the setae. [/QUOTE]

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