How Do Spiders Change Skin?

Some spider species molt throughout their life. During the molting process, the spider will remove the old exoskeleton and replace it with a new one. The new exoskeleton provides a larger surface area and gives the spider more room for growth. The spider’s old exoskeleton is broken down by digestive enzymes and absorbed. The new exoskeleton expands and hardens after the molt is completed.

The pre-molt period involves the secretion of a soft exoskeleton. This layer of skin is folded under the hard exterior skeleton and remains in place for a short period. This is called the epicuticle. The lower regions of the cuticle are digested and absorbed, while the upper regions stay intact.

When the body is ready to molt, the spider will secrete a fluid called molting fluid. The fluid contains inactive enzymes that will prevent digestion of the new procuticle. The endocuticle is also digested, creating a space between the old and new exoskeletons.

The process of molting is complex and energy-demanding. The amount of time that the spider takes to complete the molt varies from 15 minutes to a full day. It is also possible for the spider to die during the molting process.

During the molting process, the exoskeleton of a spider encloses the blood-filled body space. The spider’s external skeleton helps the spider defend itself from predators. It also gives the spider a flexible joint that lets the legs move.

Some spiders, such as the tarantula, can grow to seven inches across. They may look bloated during the molting process.

Continue reading:

Do You Know If Spiders Are Poisonous? Why Are Spiders Associated With Halloween? What Spiders Are Found in Australia? How Small Are Wolf Spiders? How Do Spiders Work Together? Do Spiders Really Hate Conkers? Do Spiders Hate Wind? How to Stop Spiders From Going in Beds