Amazing Arachnids!

Lauren Esposito, Ph.D., Curator and Schlinger Chair of Arachnology, California Academy of Sciences

Arachnids (scorpions, spiders, and their kin) are an enigmatic group of animals: though recognized and feared by all, there are many aspects of their basic biology that remain a mystery. These unique creatures are found worldwide from the highest mountains to deserts to deep cenote caves 600 meters below sea level. Arachnids are ecologically diverse, exhibit complex courtship rituals, and produce materials stronger than steel–some species may even hold the key to curing some forms of cancer. Nonetheless, there are still dozens of new species discovered each year and the natural history of these secretive animals is still, in many ways, unknown to us. We will enter the fascinating world of arachnids, the discoveries that have been made, and some of the mysteries that remain to be explored.

Tuesday, November 19, 2024

4-5 PM Reception

5-6 PM Lecture & Q&A

Sun Field Station, JRBP('O'O)

Image credit: Wikipedia commons. Species ID and individual photographers are credited here.