The female arachnids can measure three inches across when their legs are fully extended
Scientists say the zoro spider is native to the southeastern U.S. and is likely to spread to most parts of the East Coast.
The new invasive spider from East Asia is yellow, blue-black and red in color, and its thick golden web was seen in 2021 on power lines, porches and vegetable patches in Georgia and South Carolina.
It is not clear if the first zoro spider came from the U.S. how and when, but a researcher identified one in Georgia in 2014.
The University of Georgia (UGA) says arachnids first arrived in the states around 2013.
In a February study by university entomologists published in the journal Physiological Entomology, they found the zoro — also known as Triconophila clavate — appears to be better adapted to colder temperatures than a related species: the golden silk spider.
According to researchers, its metabolism is nearly double, the heart rate is 77% higher and it can survive a brief freeze that killed its relatives.
"The results show that the zoro spider has a shorter season than its cousin, indicating that it can complete its lifecycle within a narrow period of suitable season. It has a naturally high metabolism (twice as high). , and has a 77% higher heart rate when exposed to lower temperatures. Ultimately, zoro spiders survive a brief freeze better (50% compared to 74%)," the authors wrote. "These findings suggest that the zoro spider may be present in a cooler climate zone than in the southeastern United States, which may be useful information for management or planning purposes."
He also noted that zoros are found in much of Japan, whose climate is similar to that of the U.S. is similar to.
"Just looking at it, it looks like Joros could probably survive on most of the eastern seaboard here, which is pretty grim," study co-author Andy Davis said in a statement.
Davis said people should try to learn to live with orb weavers. Their impact on native species and the environment is also unclear – although some researchers believe they are benign.
The Joros are coming! New research from @UGAEcology suggests the invasive arachnid could spread out and thrive through most of the Eastern Seaboard of the United States. 🕷https://t.co/NIzTw9lF7H
— UGA (@universityofga) March 3, 2022
According to the UGA, they can also serve as an additional food source for native predators such as birds.
While zoros may use their silk to transport them to new places in the air, humans have also carried them and are more likely to be in cars or luggage.
"There's really no reason to actively squeeze them," said co-author Benjamin Frick. "Humans are at the root of their attack. Don't blame Zorro the spider."