How Far Can Spiders Smell?
WouterIf you ever get close enough to see a spider, you may wonder how far it can smell. While it’s true that some species can smell strong scents, most do not. This is why you need to physically touch an object to detect its smell.
One of the primary ways that spiders smell is through their leg hairs. Their legs have sensitive nails that enable them to hear and smell movement. In addition, their hairs are chemically sensitive.
The spider’s pedipalps, or front legs, are shaped like an antenna. These legs also have taste receptors and can be used to sense vibrations.
Scientists have found that a spider can hear sounds up to five metres away. This is a surprising fact, considering the spider’s crappy eyesight. But in some cases, the spider’s senses can help it avoid humans.
Some spiders can even detect fear chemicals. These chemicals are usually used to warn other spiders that a certain habitat is occupied. They can also be used for mating purposes.
A recent experiment, conducted by researchers at Cornell University, revealed that spiders can hear and smell sounds up to a metre from them. It turns out that the spiders’ brains take up approximately 20 to 30 percent of the prosoma, a portion of the cephalothorax. The prosoma also contains a pair of ganglia.
In addition, spiders can smell through their webs. They can even taste and smell human flesh. This makes it possible for them to identify different types of prey from each other.
