False Widow Spider Molting

As spiders grow, they will need to shed their exoskeleton. Once shedding becomes necessary, the spider's body releases specific hormones to initiate the molting process. The spider's exoskeleton consists of two layers - an inner, elastic layer and an outer, rigid layer. During molting, the inner layer is broken down, and the spider reabsorbs the nutrients it contains for later use. The outer layer remains in place to protect the spider until the new exoskeleton is ready. Meanwhile, the spider secretes a new, soft exoskeleton that is larger than its old one. This new, folded exoskeleton is ready to expand as soon as the old one is shed. The spider takes in air and uses the concentrated pressure of its blood to enlarge its body, cracking the old exoskeleton. Next, the spider pushes itself out through this fissure. The soft, unprotected spider now takes in air to create even more room in the soft exoskeleton, allowing for additional growth. The new exoskeleton then begins to harden, and when it reaches the proper degree of firmness, the molting process is complete.