The Atlas Obscura Podcast Luomus Spiders (Classic)
Oct 31, 2025
In this intriguing discussion, Pedro Cardoso, curator and arachnids expert at the Finnish Museum of Natural History, delves into a 50-year infestation of Chilean recluse spiders. He shares how this peculiar situation began in the 1960s and the limited attempts at extermination. Surprisingly, staff feel a bond with these eight-legged creatures, treating them like pets. Pedro also reveals his enthusiasm for unique spiders, from peacock spiders to the fascinating concept of spider dreams. This episode combines science, humor, and a touch of the bizarre!
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Choose Underserved Research Areas
- Focus research where biodiversity is understudied: Pedro became an expert because Portugal lacked spider specialists.
- Pursue neglected fields to make outsized scientific contributions and discoveries.
Longstanding Museum Infestation
- The museum first noticed spiders in 1963 and saw the population explode by 1970 with spiders in cupboards and drawers.
- Staff repeatedly removed individuals and renovated the building but the infestation persisted and spread under furniture and walls.
Accidental Introduction And Resilience
- The likely introduction route was accidental transport, possibly via wood chips on cargo from South America.
- Once established indoors, the spiders survived renovation and minimal control efforts, showing high resilience.