Native to Asia, the Joro spider has invaded the US state of Georgia, and this proliferation questions local scientists. Recently present in the United States, this large spider is not a threat and its presence does not necessarily represent bad news.
A real invasion
The Joro spider (Trichonephila clavata) is rather imposing with its 8 cm in diameter. Very appreciated in Japan for the bright and shimmering colors of the females (red, blue and yellow), this species is also found in Korea, China and Taiwan. As an official statement from the University of Georgia (USA) explains, this spider is found today in very large numbers in part of the United States.
First observed in 2014 near Atlanta, the Joro spider has simply proliferated. Barely over fifteen years, the species has invaded the state of Georgia in nearly 25 counties and numbered in the millions. Today, the neighboring state of South Carolina is also preparing for the beginning of an invasion. However, the appearance of the Joro spider, its build and its invasive side could lead to fear the worst.
“I think the basic invasive species ecology will tell you that in particular a predator like this that increases in such numbers in such a short time is probably having an effect on the ecosystem.” said Matt Elliott, chief assistant to the Wildlife Resources Division of the Georgia Department of Natural Resources.
No need to worry about these spiders
However, several entomologists seem to welcome this new species rather well. Indeed, this would not represent not a threat to humans and domestic animals. Rather peaceful, the spider in question does not bite as long as it is not disturbed too much. In reality, the most questioning point is none other than the extreme proliferation of the spider in such a short time. According to the researchers, a few specimens have arrived in a container from Asia. Then, the spiders would have been the subject of a significant multiplication due to the climate rather hot and humid Georgia which they seem to greatly appreciate.
For entomologists, the very presence of the Joro spider in the millions would not be a problem, at least not immediately. In addition, it will take several years before realizing whether or not the species has a significant impact on ecosystems. In the meantime, the latter feeds abundantly on flies and especially mosquitoes which, for once, are insects much more disturbing for humans.
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