Spinnerete movement and questions

[Aquacat]

I've been looking for a good answer on the internet, but I can't find any pertaining to this exact question. Whenever I feed my Chilean Rose Haired tarantula I can see her spinnerets and they move. Some other times I can see them, too. But most of the time they seem to be hidden. I've read a few good articles on the anatomy of a tarantula, but I was wondering why a tarantula sometimes has its spinnerets out, usually during feeding, and other times they're hidden.

 

[Anonymity82]

I know they like to make a web mat when they feed. Mine does the same thing. When I notice the spinnerets are up against her body, it's usually after she has settled in on a spot. I'm guessing she is "awake/alert" when you see them and settled in/"sleeping" when they are tucked up against her body. But, alas, I am no scientist. I think it is a good question though.

 

[Arachno Dano]

This is normal behavior when a tarantula eats.

~Dano

 

[DaveM]

I know they like to make a web mat when they feed.

+1 And if you shine a flashlight at just the right angle, you'll be able to see the thin strands of silk that those spinnerets are anchoring to the substrate.

 

[Anonymity82]

+1 And if you shine a flashlight at just the right angle, you'll be able to see the thin strands of silk that those spinnerets are anchoring to the substrate.

It's definitely cool! I tried to get a picture but they didn't show up. Need the right lighting.

 

[mark e sic]

I notice my Avics do that after they have cought there food.. also they tend to stick thier prey on a surface.. but most of the time after pasting the prey on a surface they only leave it for a short while then pick it up again and continue... almost like they are resting... who knows...