Full Spectrum Lighting Induces Behavioral Changes and Increases Cortisol Immunoreactivity in Captive Arachnids.

The use of full spectrum illumination, including ultraviolet (UV), during captive husbandry of arachnids is common practice. The effect of this on captive arachnids has not been previously investigated. Comparison of key behavioral changes and hemolymph cortisol immunoreactivity was undertaken with and without full spectrum lighting. King baboon spiders, Pelinobius muticus and Indian giant scorpions, Heterometrus swammerdami were selected for the study. Both organisms spent all their time hidden when exposed to full spectrum light compared to low-level ambient light except for one instance. There was no significant difference in burrowing and webbing in P. muticus when exposed to full spectrum lighting. There was a decrease in the number of behaviors or postures expressed in full spectrum lighting compared to ambient light for both species. Cortisol immunoactivity of both species were significantly elevated after exposure to full spectrum lighting. This study provides the first evidence of detectable cortisol immunoactivity in arachnid hemolymph. These levels changed in response to full spectrum illumination and were linked to behavioral changes. This suggests that a common husbandry practice may be detrimental to arachnids.

Fluorescence in scorpions under UV light; can chaerilids be a possible exception?

The fluorescence of scorpions in ultraviolet light, a well-known phenomenon, was discovered more than 60 years ago. Its possible function remains, however, a matter of discussion. Even during very recent studies, no conclusion has been reached. As suggested in these recent publications, the lack of or reduction of fluorescence could be a useful tool to explain the phenomenon. It is suggested here that, in at least some species of the family Chaerilidae Simon, this phenomenon is absent. This new discovery may initiate important comparative eco-physiological studies.