The warmer climate conditions in western Greece have led to a spectacular 1,000-foot-long (300 meter) spiderweb covering an entire shoreline in Aitoliko.
A wide area of greenery along the beach has been covered by webs created by Tetragnatha spiders.
Scientists explained that it is a seasonal phenomenon, as warmer than usual temperatures, sufficient humidity and food have created the ideal conditions for the species to reproduce in large numbers.
An increase in the mosquito population is also thought to have contributed to the rise in the number of spiders in the area.
This particular spiderweb is one of the largest ever witnessed and, according to scientists, it will eventually disappear naturally.
The resulting cobwebs have completely smothered plants and palm trees along the shoreline in the small Greek town.
“It’s as if the spiders are taking advantage of these conditions and are having a kind of a party,” Maria Chatzaki, professor of molecular biology and genetics at Democritus University of Thrace told the Newsit.gr website.
“They mate, they reproduce and provide a whole new generation,” she added. “These spiders are not dangerous for humans and will not cause any damage to the area’s flora.
Photos: Giannis Giannakopoulos
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