Psalmopoeus

Psalmopoeus
Psalmopoeus irminia
Scientific classification
Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Arthropoda
Class: Arachnida
Order: Araneae
Family: Theraphosidae
Subfamily: Selenocosmiinae
Genus: Psalmopoeus
Pocock, 1895

Psalmopoeus is a genus of the family Theraphosidae containing various species of tarantulas. The genus is native to Central America and South America including the West Indies. These species are believed to be relatively venomous, and research in the venom of P. cambridgei shows it to be similar to capsaicin, the molecule causing irritation in chili peppers.[1] These molecules activate sensory cells to send pain signals to the brain. Genetic engineers are working on blocking the receptors that are activated by these molecules.[1]

List of species

References

  1. ^ a b Anitei, Stefan (2006). Chili Peppers, as Strong as Tarantula Venom. Science.

External links