The correct spelling of the species of tarantula found in Cuba is "tarantula cubensis." In IPA phonetic transcription, it would be written as /təˈræntʃələ kjuːˈbɛnsɪs/. The word "tarantula" is pronounced with the stress on the second syllable /təˈræntʃələ/. "Cubensis" is pronounced with the stress on the first syllable /kjuːˈbɛnsɪs/ and the 'u' is pronounced like the 'u' in 'fuse.' Overall, mastering IPA phonetic transcription can help in understanding and communicating complex scientific nomenclature accurately.
Tarantula cubensis is a species of tarantula that belongs to the family Theraphosidae, which includes a wide variety of large, hairy spiders. Also known as the Cuban tarantula, Tarantula cubensis is native to Cuba, where it can be found in various habitats such as forests and grasslands.
This species of tarantula is characterised by its relatively large size, with adult females reaching a leg span of around 5-6 inches. Tarantula cubensis has a robust body covered in dense dark brown or black hair, while the males tend to be smaller and possess a slightly different coloration.
In terms of behavior, Tarantula cubensis is primarily nocturnal and solitary. It spends most of its time in burrows it constructs or in hides it creates under rocks or logs. These tarantulas are opportunistic predators, feeding mainly on insects, small vertebrates, and other arachnids. They use their fangs to inject venom into their prey, which immobilizes and digests them.
Although they possess venomous fangs, Tarantula cubensis is not considered dangerous to humans, as their venom is relatively weak and primarily used for subduing prey. However, they can bite if threatened or provoked, which may cause local irritation or an allergic reaction in some individuals.
Tarantula cubensis, like other tarantulas, is often sought after by exotic pet enthusiasts. Their ease of maintenance and relatively calm nature (compared to some other tarantula species) make them popular in the pet trade. However, individuals interested in keeping Tarantula cubensis or any other tarantula as a pet should ensure they have the necessary knowledge and expertise to provide proper care and habitat conditions.
A tincture made from the live Cuban tarantula, employed in homeopathic practice in the treatment of carbuncles, felons, and malignant diphtheria, in doses of the 6th to 30th potency.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The etymology of the term "tarantula cubensis" can be understood by breaking down each component:
1. Tarantula: The word "tarantula" originated from the Italian word "tarantola", which is derived from the name of the city Taranto in southern Italy. The term was used to refer to large, hairy spiders found in the region. It was believed that the bite of these spiders caused a condition called tarantism, characterized by a dancing mania. Hence, the name "tarantula" became associated with these spiders.
2. Cubensis: The word "cubensis" refers to the origin of the tarantula, specifically Cuba. It is derived from the Latin word "cubus", meaning "Cuban".
Therefore, "tarantula cubensis" denotes a species of tarantula that is native to Cuba.