The Joro spider, an invasive arachnid species from east Asia first detected in Georgia around 2013, has now reached the Great Smoky Mountains National Park which straddles the border between North Carolina and Tennessee. The National Park Service is calling on the public to help track its expansion along the Eastern Seaboard. Learn how you can contribute to protecting the park’s delicate ecosystem.
What Is the Joro Spider?
The Joro spider, originally from East Asia, is easily recognizable by its striking appearance. Its large, vibrant yellow abdomen with blue stripes and black-and-yellow banded legs make it easy to identify. The spider’s golden web is another distinctive feature. Since its arrival in the U.S., it has spread across most southern states, with recent sightings in the Great Smoky Mountains, particularly in the Cades Cove area of eastern Tennessee.
Why Is the Joro Spider a Concern?
While the Joro spider poses no significant threat to humans, it can very easily disrupt local ecosystems by outcompeting native spider populations. Entomologists note that the spider’s high metabolism may allow it to survive in cooler climates, increasing its potential to spread farther north. This adaptability sets it apart from the golden silk spider, a similar species that migrated to the Southeast over a century ago but struggles in colder weather.
Joro Spider Sightings in Great Smoky Mountains
Rangers in Great Smoky Mountains National Park have reported a growing presence of Joro spiders. The species’ expansion raises concerns about its impact on the park’s biodiversity. To better understand its spread, the National Park Service is asking visitors to document sightings using the free iNaturalist app. By uploading photos, you can provide valuable data to help scientists manage this invasive species and protect the park’s natural balance.
How to Identify a Joro Spider
- Appearance: Large, yellow abdomen with blue stripes and black-and-yellow banded legs.
- Web: Distinctive golden-hued silk.
- Location: Commonly found in southern states, now spreading to areas like the Great Smoky Mountains.
How You Can Help
The National Park Service encourages park visitors to report Joro spider sightings. Here’s how you can contribute:
- Download the iNaturalist App: This free app allows you to upload photos of wildlife, including the Joro spider.
- Take a Clear Photo: Capture an image of the spider or its web.
- Upload to iNaturalist: Your observation will help scientists track the spider’s spread and assess its impact.
Your efforts can make a difference in preserving the ecological balance of the Great Smoky Mountains.
Why Public Involvement Matters
The Joro spider’s arrival in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a call to action for visitors. By reporting sightings through the iNaturalist app, you can play a vital role in tracking this invasive species. With increased public participation, scientists can monitor the Joro spider’s expansion more effectively. The data collected will support future studies and help develop strategies to manage this invasive species. By working together, we can protect the Smokies’ unique ecosystem for future generations.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park Statement:
Help us track down Joro spiders in the Smokies.
The invasive Joro spider (Trichonephila clavata), originally from East Asia, was first introduced in Georgia and is steadily spreading north. These large orb-weaving spiders are striking to see, but they pose a challenge: as they move into new areas, populations of native orb weavers have been shown to quickly decline due to competition.
In Great Smoky Mountains National Park, most sightings have occurred in and around Cades Cove. A University of Tennessee researcher is studying their spread and needs your help!
If you spot a Joro spider in the park, please upload a photo using the free iNaturalist app. Your observations will provide valuable data to help us better understand and manage this invasive species. Together, we can protect the Smokies’ natural balance.
