Camel spiders, also known as solifuges, sun spiders, or wind scorpions, are fascinating arachnids that often spark curiosity and misunderstanding. These creatures, though sometimes intimidating in appearance, are subject to numerous myths that overshadow their true nature and ecological significance. Exploring their characteristics, habits, and role in their environments helps to provide a clearer picture of these unique desert dwellers.
Presence in the United States
Camel spiders are found in the United States, native to arid and semi-arid regions, primarily inhabiting the southwestern states. These areas include Arizona, California, Nevada, New Mexico, and Texas. Their presence in these hot, dry climates is natural, and they are not considered an invasive species. Over 100 species exist in the southwestern U.S., part of approximately 120 species found nationwide.
Understanding Camel Spiders
Camel spiders belong to the order Solifugae, distinguishing them from true spiders (order Araneae) and scorpions (order Scorpiones). Despite common names, they are a separate group within the class Arachnida. Their bodies are covered in fine hairs and range in color from beige to various shades of brown, tan, or reddish hues, helping them blend into their desert surroundings.
These arachnids possess a body divided into two main sections: the prosoma (cephalothorax) and the 10-segmented opisthosoma (abdomen). Their large jaws, called chelicerae, can be up to one-third of their body length. While they have eight legs, two leg-like pedipalps at the front of their bodies are used for sensory perception and manipulating prey. Body length ranges from a few millimeters to about 7 centimeters (3 inches), with the largest species reaching up to 15 centimeters (6 inches) including their legs.
Dispelling Common Myths
Misconceptions surround camel spiders, exaggerating their size, speed, and danger. One myth suggests they are extremely fast, but their top speed is around 10 miles per hour, significantly less than often portrayed. Camel spiders are not venomous. While their bite can be painful due to their strong jaws, it is not lethal to humans.
Exaggerations about their size are frequent; while large for arachnids, they do not grow to extreme proportions. The idea that they attack or eat camels or humans is false. The name “camel spider” likely comes from their presence in desert habitats where camels are found, and they are non-aggressive towards humans unless provoked. Camel spiders do not jump. The myth of them chasing people stems from their tendency to run towards shade, sometimes including a human’s shadow, to escape the sun.
Behavior and Ecological Role
Camel spiders are nocturnal creatures, preferring to hunt during cooler night hours. During the day, they hide in burrows, under rocks, or other shaded areas to avoid the sun, as their name “Solifugae” means “those who flee from the sun.” They are carnivorous predators with a varied diet.
Their diet consists mainly of insects and other arthropods, such as termites, beetles, wasps, scorpions, and other spiders. They also prey on small vertebrates like lizards, small birds, and rodents. Using their chelicerae to grasp and crush prey, camel spiders are active hunters, pursuing it rather than employing a sit-and-wait strategy. In their ecosystems, camel spiders control populations of various insect and small animal species. They are solitary animals, except during mating.