# Tarantula Care Glossary > [!info] **How to use this glossary** > This glossary defines technical terms used in the **Comprehensive [[overview]]**. --- ## Arboreal **Definition:** Tree-dwelling species that require vertical space and climbing structures in their enclosure. **Example genera:** *Avicularia*, *Psalmopoeus*. **Related:** [[#Terrestrial]], [[#Fossorial]] --- ## Ataxia **Definition:** Loss of muscle coordination, often presenting as unsteady or jerky movements. **Causes:** Toxin exposure, neurological damage, infection. **Related:** [[#Dyskinetic Syndrome (DKS)]] --- ## Autotomy **Definition:** Voluntary shedding of a limb, usually as a defense mechanism or due to injury. **Notes:** Tarantulas can regrow lost limbs over successive molts. **Related:** [[#Cuticular Trauma]] --- ## Cuticular Trauma **Definition:** Physical damage to the exoskeleton (cuticle) of a tarantula. **Causes:** Falls, sharp decor, attacks from prey or other spiders. **Treatment:** Cornstarch for small wounds, cyanoacrylate glue for larger tears. **Related:** [[#Hemolymph]] --- ## Dyskinetic Syndrome (DKS) **Definition:** A neurological disorder in tarantulas characterized by uncontrolled, jerky limb movements. **Causes:** Often linked to toxin exposure (e.g., pesticides), but may also result from infections or trauma. **Related:** [[#Ataxia]] --- ## Ecdysis **Definition:** The process of shedding the exoskeleton to allow growth. **Notes:** Tarantulas are vulnerable during and after ecdysis; disturbance can be fatal. **Related:** [[#Molting]] --- ## Fossorial **Definition:** Burrowing species that require deep substrate to create tunnels and chambers. **Example genera:** *Haplopelma*, *Chilobrachys*. **Related:** [[#Terrestrial]], [[#Arboreal]] --- ## Gutloading **Definition:** Feeding prey insects a nutritious diet before offering them to a tarantula, ensuring nutrient transfer. **Example foods:** Fresh vegetables, high-quality dry insect diets. **Related:** [[#Feeder Insects]] --- ## Hemolymph **Definition:** The blood-like fluid in invertebrates that transports nutrients and oxygen. **Notes:** Loss of hemolymph can be fatal; appears pale blue or clear. **Related:** [[#Cuticular Trauma]] --- ## Molting **Definition:** Common term for ecdysis — the shedding of the exoskeleton. **Signs:** Refusal to eat, darkening of the exoskeleton, laying a web mat. **Related:** [[#Ecdysis]] --- ## Opisthosoma **Definition:** The posterior body segment of a tarantula, commonly referred to as the abdomen. **Notes:** Houses vital organs and spinnerets. **Related:** [[#Prosoma]] --- ## PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) **Definition:** Clothing or gear worn to protect the keeper during handling or enclosure maintenance. **Examples:** Gloves, long sleeves, eye protection. **Related:** [[#Handling]] --- ## Prosoma **Definition:** The anterior body segment of a tarantula, containing the eyes, mouthparts, and legs. **Related:** [[#Opisthosoma]] --- ## Terrestrial **Definition:** Ground-dwelling species that require more floor space than height in their enclosure. **Example genera:** *Grammostola*, *Brachypelma*. **Related:** [[#Arboreal]], [[#Fossorial]] --- ## Urticating Hairs **Definition:** Barbed hairs found on the opisthosoma of many New World tarantulas, used defensively by flicking them into the air. **Effects:** Can cause skin irritation, eye damage, or respiratory issues. **Related:** [[#Opisthosoma]]