Scared of spiders? Your nightmare is in the U.S., but not in Ohio … yet

Scared of spiders? Your nightmare is in the U.S., but not in Ohio … yet

CLEVELAND, Ohio — The Joro spider, a large and venomous arachnid native to East Asia, has been making headlines across the East Coast of the United States. According to a news release from New Jersey Pest Control, the spider’s spread is causing both fascination and concern among scientists.

The invasive species first gained attention in 2021 when it was spotted in Georgia. Since then, it has been steadily making its way north and could potentially reach New Jersey by the end of this year. Fortunately, there have been no reported sightings of the Joro spider in Ohio.

Experts believe that the spider likely made its way to the U.S. from Asia, possibly through Japan, although the exact method of transportation remains unclear. David Coyle, an invasive species expert at the University of Clemson, warns that the spider is likely to expand its range further north in the coming years.

With a leg span of up to 4 inches, the Joro spider is an intimidating sight with vibrant yellow and gray bodies. Despite not having wings, the spider is capable of “ballooning” through the air by releasing silk threads that carry it on the wind.

While the spider’s venom is not deadly to humans, it can cause discomfort and allergic reactions in some individuals. There are also concerns about the potential impact of the Joro spider on local ecosystems.

As the Joro spider continues to spread across the U.S., it serves as a reminder of the potential threats posed by invasive species and the importance of monitoring and controlling their populations.

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