The term “spider” refers to an arachnid that belongs to the order Araneae, which is characterized by creatures that have eight legs and chelicerae with fangs that can inject venom. They are found all over the world and are known for their ability to spin intricate webs from silk produced within their bodies, a skill they primarily use for capturing prey. Spiders are diverse in species, with over 45,000 known types, and they vary greatly in size, color, and behavior. Some spiders are ground-dwellers that hunt for their food, while others use their webs as traps. Spiders play a crucial role in the ecosystem as they help control insect populations. In terms of cultural significance, spiders are featured in many myths and folklore, often symbolizing patience due to their web-weaving, and are also a common subject in art and literature. Despite their ecological benefits, spiders are commonly misunderstood and can induce arachnophobia in some individuals. However, most spiders are harmless to humans, and only a few species have bites that can cause significant harm.
