Arachnology is the scientific study of spiders and related organisms such as scorpions, pseudoscorpions, harvestmen, collectively called arachnids. However, the study of ticks and mites is sometimes not included in arachnology, but is called Acarology.

Arachnologists are primarily responsible for classifying arachnids. This can be a tedious task due to the sheer number of arachnids in existence. Two species of arachnids may appear virtually identical while two others of the same species may boast very different traits. Around 1970 arachnids became popular pets (specifically tarantulas). This prompted sellers and breeders to appoint a second name to each type (known as a common name). Ex: The Brachypelma Smithi has become known as the Mexican redknee tarantula ever since it entered the pet trade. The fact that many arachnids and almost all tarantulas have two names has complicated the process of classifying tarantulas. Arachnologists are in high demand and desperately needed. The problem being that often Arachnologists are being paid much less than many other zoology related professionals.

Rick West is probably the most renound Arachnologist. He studies tarantulas and has travelled extensively. He now lives in Vancouver Canada.

See also

• Entomology
• Important publications in arachnology
• Category:Arachnologists

Arachnids | Araneae | Zoology | Subfields of zoology

Arachnologie | Arachnologie | ארכנולוגיה | Araknologi | Aracnologia | Arachnology