The Nosferatu spider converses NRW: this is how you recognize and report it!

The Nosferatu spider converses NRW: this is how you recognize and report it!

The Nosferatu spider, originally from the Mediterranean, has been spreading in Germany for about 20 years. Especially in North Rhine-Westphalia (North Rhine-Westphalia), the spider has gained distribution in recent years. Initial sightings in Germany were recorded in Baden-Württemberg in 2005 and in 2006 in Cologne. Over 35,000 reports now appeared on the NABU-Naturgucker.de portal. This reports RuHR24 .

A research team from the University of Münster in cooperation with the LWL Museum for Natural History actively examines the spread of the Nosferatu spider. The commitment of the citizens plays an important role in this. People are called up to take photos of discovered copies and to submit them via the "Obsidatify" app or the "Observation.org" nature observation portal. According to Dr. Jan Ole Krieg, the director of the LWL Museum, is less dangerous than often presented; It is comparable to her bite with a slight wasp sting.

The characteristics of the Nosferatu spider

The Nosferatu spider reaches a body length of up to two centimeters and a leg span of up to six centimeters. Their appearance is brownish, with two characteristic dark longitudinal strips on the front body. The spider is active, but does not build networks and can even climb up on glass panes. The spread in NRW is particularly pronounced along the Rhine and the Ruhr.

The studies led by the LWL Museum and the University of Münster have also contributed to promoting understanding of this Art. More and more observations come about through media attention that arouses interest in the Nosferatu spider and strengthens citizen science. Dr. Nadja Pernat from the Cibra emphasizes how important the data collected is for understanding the occurrence and the effects of this kind. This data can help to answer more general questions of biodiversity and climate changes, as in the natural sciences and in nature conservation at research is emphasized.

meaning of citizenship in nature conservation

Citizens' Science, a central component of many nature conservation projects in Germany, is intended to help show long -term inventory developments for species and ecosystems. The findings gained therein serve to formulate concrete recommendations for the protection and care of species and habitats. The cooperation between the LWL Museum and the University is also an example of the effects of citizen science that collects valuable data for research and nature conservation purposes together with voluntary nature.

In order to counter the challenges in nature conservation, these projects mobilize volunteers and offer you the necessary support from full -time coordinators. The success of these initiatives depends heavily on the active participation of the citizens. Volunteers not only contribute to the data collection, but also enjoy personal development and create a connection to nature.