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Brazilian Wandering Spider

The Brazilian Wandering Spider (Phoneutria fera) is an aggressive and highly venomous spider . It was first discovered in Brazil hence its name. However, this genus is known to exist elsewhere in South and Central America .

The Brazilian Wandering spider is a member of the Ctenidae family of wandering spiders.

The Brazilian Wandering spider appeared in the Guinness Book of World Records 2007 for being the most venomous animal .

In this particular genus, there are five known similar species whose members are also highly venomous. They include some of the relatively few species of spiders that present a threat to human beings.

Brazilian Wandering Spider Characteristics

The Brazilian wandering spider can grow to have a leg span of up to 4 – 5 inches. They are large hairy spindly-looking spiders who have eight eyes, two of which are large. Brazilian wandering spiders are fast-moving spiders, their legs are strong and spiny and they have distinctive red jaws which they display when angered.

The Brazilian wandering spider is not a Tarantula . Brazilian wandering spiders are not even in the same family group. Tarantulas are harmless to humans and are mostly ambush killers who wait for prey to come to them. Brazilian wandering spiders are active hunters. Brazilian wandering spiders and Tarantulas do have one thing in common, however, they do not eat bananas.

Brazilian Wandering Spider Habitat and Spider Webs

The Brazilian Wandering spider is so-called because it wanders the jungle floor, rather than residing in a lair or maintaining a web. This is another reason it is considered so dangerous. In densely populated areas, the Brazilian Wandering spider will usually search for cover and dark places to hide during daytime, leading it to hide within houses, clothes, cars, boots, boxes and log piles. This usually causes accidents when people disturb them.

The Brazilian Wandering spider is also called the ‘banana spider’ as it is occasionally found within shipments of bananas. As a result, any large spider appearing in a bunch of bananas should be treated with due care.

Brazilian Wandering Spider Diet

Adult Brazilian Wandering spiders eat crickets, other large insects, small lizards and mice. Spiderlings of this species eat flightless fruit flies and pinhead crickets.

Brazilian Wandering Spider Reproduction

All spiders produce silk, a thin, strong protein strand extruded by the spider from spinnerets most commonly found on the end of the abdomen. Many species use it to trap insects in webs, although there are many species that hunt freely such as the Brazilian Wandering spider. Silk can be used to aid in climbing, form smooth walls for burrows, build egg sacs, wrap prey and temporarily hold sperm, among other applications.

Brazilian Wandering spiders reproduce by means of eggs, which are packed into silk bundles called egg sacs. The male spider must (in most cases) make a timely departure after mating to escape before the females normal predatory instincts return.

Mature male spiders have swollen bulbs on the end of their palps for this purpose and this is a useful way to identify whether the spider is male or female. Once the sperm is inside the female spider, she stores it in a chamber and only uses it during the egg-laying process, when the eggs come into contact with the male sperm for the first time and are fertilized. The Brazilian Wandering spiders life cycle is 1 – 2 years.

Brazilian Wandering Spider Venom

Bites from the Brazilian Wandering spider may result in only a couple of painful pinpricks to full-blown envenomed. In either case, people bitten by this spider or any Ctenid should seek immediate emergency treatment as the venom is possibly life threatening.

The Phoneutria fera and Phoneutria nigriventer (two species of wandering spider) are the two most commonly implicated as the most vicious and deadly of the Phoneutria spiders.

The Phoneutria not only has a potent neurotoxin, but is reported to have one of the most excruciatingly painful envenoms of all spiders due to its high concentration of serotonin. They have the most active venom of any living spiders.

One of their members, the Brazilian Huntsman, is thought to be the most venomous spider in the world. Brazilian wandering spiders are certainly dangerous and bite more people than any other spiders.

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Brazilian Wandering Spider Facts

Brazilian wandering spider profile.

There are more than 50,000 species of spider, and the vast majority are less dangerous than a honeybee. Almost none are aggressive, and of those with medically significant venom, only a small percentage are capable of causing death. So, on the whole, arachnophobes are just being a bit silly.

But there’s one spider that vindicates all of these fears, and few animals are as globally renowned to be a serious threat to human lives as the Brazilian Wandering Spider .

Brazilian Wandering Spiders are actually 9 species of spider in the same genus ‘Phoneutria’, one of which is found in Central America, with the rest in South America.

Brazilian Wandering Spider Facts Overview

These spiders are called wandering spiders because of instead of spinning a web to wait for food, or occupying a lair, they spend their night wandering in the leaf litter of the jungle floor for prey.

The sensitive hairs on its body help detect vibrations of passing prey, and it will feed on insects, lizards, frogs and any animals as large as itself.

During the day they will hide under logs, rocks, or inside termite mounds and banana plants. They will also sometimes wander into urban areas and homes, where they can come into contact with humans.

Brazilian wandering spiders are aggressive , dangerous and frightening. For once, this is an animal you should be wary of.

The females are larger, around 50% heavier than males, and produce more venom, and this might be a clue as to why their Greek name translates to “ Mudress” . These spiders will often stand and fight and have an intimidating threat display.

The potency of their venom is one of the reasons they’re so dangerous, and their ability to hide away in fruit and shoes explains why most bites are on extremities.

Interesting Brazilian Wandering Spider Facts

1. armed spiders.

In Brazilian, these are sometimes known as armed spiders, on account of their elongated front legs.

They can convey quite a bit of information with these legs, and as wandering spiders, use them to get about the forest, looking for food.

2. Banana Spiders

They’re also sometimes called ‘banana spiders’ on account of their status as a stowaway on popular fruit imported from the tropics.

This is becoming less common as stricter regulations ensure there’s less contamination of fruits, but there’s always a chance your next bunch of bananas will have a family of these spiders living inside it.

3. They have the largest venom glands of any spider

Females produce more venom than males, but both sexes have enormous venom glands. These glands are even more impressive when you consider the size of the spider is significantly less than the largest around.

The venom glands of the Brazilian Wandering Spider are over a centimetre long, and this is all housed inside the bright red chelicerae (mouth parts) which they are quick to display whenever they get upset. 1

4. They’re aggressive

These spiders can grow quite large and have long, brightly-coloured legs. Unlike most spiders, they’re known to stand their ground when threatened and are far quicker to bite than many other species.

They’ll still try to scurry away where possible, and they’re not out to get anybody.

But where most other species will flee, the wandering spiders’ aggression does make it more likely to be involved in incidents.

Most bites are on fingers and toes, a sign that they’re being stepped on or grabbed inadvertently. When the spider feels cornered, it’ll rear up on its back legs and waves its colourful arms around as a warning.

Then it’ll sway side to side, beckoning you to have a go. Anything foolhardy enough to call this bluff gets a wealth of envenomation effects. 2 3

5. They give some men erections

There are ways to accomplish this with fewer side effects, but a bit from a Brazilian wandering spider does come with a certain Viagral quality.

This isn’t as fun as it might sound. Prolonged erections in this manner are likely to harm and destroy muscles and blood vessels in the penis and could cause irreparable damage.

Besides this, the assault on the central nervous system that comes with envenomation by this spider doesn’t sound worth it. 4

6. And some people die

This assault brings with it a whole host of unpleasant symptoms. Seizures, foaming at the mouth, inability to speak, collapse, and a host of other miserable experiences.

Paralysis is possible, as is cardiac shock. Blood vessels can burst in the brain, or anywhere else, and in many cases, this can be enough to kill a person.

This spider has one of the most potent venoms of all, and there are multiple legitimate records of death as a result of bites.

7. But they’re rarely fatal

While the Brazilian wandering spider is potentially one of the most dangerous spiders in the world, there is some evidence to suggest it gives a dry bite, defensively.

This means that despite exceptionally toxic venom, the amount actually injected is less than some of the other contenders, and this is what makes it typically less lethal than the Australian funnel webs.

These spiders are classified as Dangerous Wild Animals and would therefore require a special permit to keep. Bites from wandering spiders are common in South America, but antivenom is often readily available, and they rarely result in death.

In most cases, lethal bites are cases of a very young or very old victim, and few people of healthy age are killed. 5

8. They do invade the UK sometimes

These unquestionably scary spiders show up in supermarkets in the UK on occasion, having hitched a ride on banana shipments.

On more than one occasion they’ve made their way into shoppers’ homes, but it doesn’t appear that there are any cases of them biting people as a result.

These spiders aren’t suited for temperate climates and don’t survive Winter, so there’s no risk of them multiplying.

Brazilian Wandering Spider Fact-File Summary

Scientific classification, fact sources & references.

• PeerJ. (2017), “ Dimensions of venom gland of largest venom glands in all spiders ”, Bio Numbers.
• Dave Clarke (2010), “ Venomous spider found in Waitrose shopping ‘beautiful but aggressive’” , The Guardian.
• “ Phoneutria Perty (Arachnida: Araneae: Ctenidae) ”, UF-IFAS University of Florida
• Kátia R.M. Leite (2012), “ Phoneutria nigriventer spider toxin Tx2-6 causes priapism and death: A histopathological investigation in mice ”, Science Direct.
• “ Brazilian wandering spiders: Bites & other facts ”, Live Science.

• SYDNEY, NSW
• MELBOURNE, VIC
• HOBART, TAS
• BRISBANE, QLD
• ADELAIDE, SA
• CANBERRA, ACT
• Man accused of murdering 23-year-old Hannah McGuire fronts court

Tarantula wasp and Brazilian spider fight to the death

• South America

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Brazilian wandering spiders: Bites & other facts

The spider's name means "murderess" in Greek, which is appropriate for the deadly arachnid.

Classification/taxonomy

Size & characteristics, bites and venom, additional resources.

The Brazilian wandering spider, also called armed spiders or banana spiders, belongs to the genus Phoneutria , which means "murderess" in Greek. And it's no wonder why — it's one of the most venomous spiders on Earth . Its bite, which delivers neurotoxic venom, can be deadly to humans, especially children, although antivenom makes death unlikely.

Guinness World Records has previously named the Brazilian wandering spider the world's most venomous spider multiple times (though the current record-holder is the Sydney funnel-web spider, Atrax robustus , according to Guinness ). But, as the late Jo-Anne Sewlal, who was an arachnologist at the University of the West Indies in Trinidad and Tobago, told Live Science, "classifying an animal as deadly is controversial," as the amount of damage depends on the amount of venom injected. 

Jo-Anne Sewlal was a noted arachnologist from Trinidad and Tobago. While completing her PhD, she received the National Institute of Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology (NIHERST) 2012 Award for Excellence in Science and Technology for Junior Scientist. In 2013, She received a doctorate in zoology from the University of the West Indies. She discovered several species of spiders in her home country, surveyed the arachnids across several countries the Caribbean and appeared as an expert on the topic on The Science Channel. She died of an allergic reaction in January 2020.

There are nine species of Brazilian wandering spider, all of which are nocturnal and can be found in Brazil. Some species also can be found throughout Central and South America, from Costa Rica to Argentina, according to a 2008 article in the journal American Entomologist . Study author Richard S. Vetter, a research associate in the department of entomology at the University of California, Agriculture and Natural Resources, wrote that specimens of these powerful arachnids have been mistakenly exported to North America and Europe in banana shipments. However, Vetter noted, in many cases of cargo infestation, the spider in question is a harmless banana spider (genus Cupiennius ) that is misidentified as a Phoneutria . The two types of spiders look similar.

The taxonomy of Brazilian wandering spiders, according to the Integrated Taxonomic Information System (ITIS) , is:

Kingdom : Animalia Subkingdom : Bilateria Infrakingdom : Protostomia Superphylum : Ecdysozoa Phylum : Arthropoda Subphylum : Chelicerata Class : Arachnida Order : Araneae Family : Ctenidae Genus : Phoneutria  

• Phoneutria bahiensis
• Phoneutria boliviensis
• Phoneutria eickstedtae
• Phoneutria fera
• Phoneutria keyserlingi
• Phoneutria nigriventer
• Phoneutria pertyi
• Phoneutria reidyi
• Phoneutria depilata , according to a 2021 study published in the journal ZooKeys , which found that Phoneutria boliviensis actually included two separate species from different habitats. 

Brazilian wandering spiders are large, with bodies reaching up to 2 inches (5 centimeters) and a leg span of up to 7 inches (18 cm), according to the Natural History Museum in Karlsruhe, Germany. The species vary in color, though all are hairy and mostly brown and gray, although some species have lightly colored spots on their abdomen. Many species have bands of black and yellow or white on the underside of the two front legs, according to the University of Florida . 

These arachnids "are called wandering spiders because they do not build webs but wander on the forest floor at night, actively hunting prey," Sewlal told Live Science in an interview conducted in 2014, before her death. They kill by both ambush and direct attack.

They spend most of their day hiding under logs or in crevices, and come out to hunt at night. They eat insects, other spiders and sometimes, small amphibians, reptiles and mice. 

Research into one species of Brazilian wandering spider, Phoneutria boliviensis , revealed that these spiders eat a mix of arthropods and reptiles. DNA metabarcoding, a technique that examines the DNA and RNA in a sample, of the guts of 57 spiders identified 96 prey species, including flies, beetles, butterflies, moths, grasshoppers, locusts and crickets, according to research from the University of Tolima and the University of Ibagué in Colombia . Some of the female spiders also ate lizards and snakes.

While their bites are powerful and painful, "their bites are a means of self-defense and only done if they are provoked intentionally or by accident," Sewlal said.

In the Brazilian wandering spider, just as in most spider species, the female is larger than the male. Males approach females cautiously when attempting to mate, according to the biology department at the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse . Males perform a dance to get females' attention, and males often fight each other over the female. The female can be picky, and she often turns down many males before choosing a mating partner. Once she does pick one, the male needs to watch out; females often attack the males once copulation is finished.

The female then can store the sperm in a separate chamber from the eggs until she is ready to fertilize them. She will lay up to 1,000 eggs at a time, which are kept safe in a spun-silk egg sac.

Brazilian wandering spiders typically live for one or two years.

Brazilian wandering spiders' venom is a complex cocktail of toxins, proteins and peptides, according to the Natural History Museum in Karlsruhe, Germany. The venom affects ion channels and chemical receptors in victims' neuromuscular systems.

After a human is bitten by one of these spiders, he or she may experience initial symptoms such as severe burning pain at the site of the bite, sweating and goosebumps, Sewlal said. Within 30 minutes, symptoms become systemic and include high or low blood pressure , fast or a slow heart rate , nausea, abdominal cramping, hypothermia, vertigo, blurred vision, convulsions and excessive sweating associated with shock. People who are bitten by a Brazilian wandering spider should seek medical attention immediately.

Their  venom is perhaps most famous for triggering painful and long-lasting erections . For that reason, in a 2023 study, scientists reported that they were testing the venom in humans as a potential treatment for erectile dysfunction in those for whom Viagra didn't work.

However, these bites are rare, and envenomations, or exposure to these toxins from a spider bite, are usually mild, Vetter said. For instance, a 2000 study in the journal Revista do Instituto de Medicina Tropical de São Paulo found that only 2.3% of people with bites who came to a Brazilian hospital over a 13-year period were treated with antivenom. (The other bites did not contain enough venom to require it.) Most of the bites were from the species P. nigriventer and P. keyserlingi in eastern coastal Brazil. About 4,000 bites reportedly happen each year in Brazil, but only 0.5% of those cases are severe, according to a 2018 study in the journal Clinical Toxinology in Australia, Europe, and Americas . Meanwhile, 15 deaths have been attributed to Phoneutria in Brazil since 1903, the 2018 study reported. 

"It is unlikely that the spider would inject all of its venom into you, as this venom is not only needed as a means of defense but to immobilize prey," Sewlal said. "So if it did inject all of its venom, it [would] have to wait until its body manufactured more before it could hunt." That would also leave the spider vulnerable to being attacked by predators.

Furthermore, Sewlal pointed out that venom production requires a lot of a spider's resources and time. "So if the spider were to attack frequently and use up all of its venom, it [would] be safe to assume that it has a ready food supply to replace the energy and resources used. This situation does not exist in the wild."

• Learn more about Brazilian wandering spiders from the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse .
• Read about several species of Brazilian wandering spiders, including several images of the arachnids at the University of Florida .
• Find a spider in your bananas? It may or may not be a deadly species, according to the University of California, Riverside .

This article was originally published on Nov. 20, 2014. 

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Jessie Szalay is a contributing writer to FSR Magazine. Prior to writing for Live Science, she was an editor at Living Social. She holds an MFA in nonfiction writing from George Mason University and a bachelor's degree in sociology from Kenyon College. 

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Wandering Spider: All You Need to Know in a Nutshell

Wandering spiders are a group of venomous arachnids found primarily in South America.

Among these, the Brazilian wandering spider is particularly known for its potent venom and unique behavior. They are often referred to as “banana spiders” due to their frequent encounters with humans in banana plantations.

As a reader, you might be interested in learning more about these fascinating creatures, including their habitat, hunting techniques, and the effects of their venom.

In this article, we will delve into the world of wandering spiders and provide you with all the essential information to satisfy your curiosity.

Scientific Classification and Naming

The wandering spider belongs to the genus Phoneutria , which is a part of the Ctenidae family.

These spiders are known for their potent venom and aggressive behavior. Here is the scientific classification of the wandering spider:

• Kingdom: Animalia
• Phylum: Arthropoda
• Subphylum: Chelicerata
• Class: Arachnida
• Order: Araneae
• Family: Ctenidae
• Genus: Phoneutria

Within the genus Phoneutria, two species are particularly noteworthy: Phoneutria fera and Phoneutria nigriventer, also known as P. nigriventer . These spiders are primarily found in South America and other tropical regions.

Phoneutria fera and P. nigriventer differ in some aspects. Let’s compare their features using a table:

Some key characteristics of the wandering spiders in the genus Phoneutria include:

• Potent venom that can be dangerous to humans
• Nocturnal hunters and are active at night
• Equipped with long, spiny legs for capturing prey
• Aggressive defenders of their territory

By understanding the scientific classification and differences between Phoneutria species, you can better appreciate the diversity and fascinating biology of these wandering spiders.

Identification and Appearance

Color and size.

The wandering spider, also known as the banana spider, has a distinctive appearance that can help you easily identify it in the wild.

They usually have a combination of hairy brown and black colors on their body. Their size can vary, but they are generally considered large spiders. Their size can range from 1 to 2 inches in body length.

When it comes to wandering spider’s leg span, these creatures can have an impressive reach. Their leg span can extend up to 5-6 inches.

Some key characteristics of a wandering spider’s legs include:

Habitat and Distribution

Wandering Spiders are known to inhabit various environments, including rainforests and tropical forests.

These spiders can adapt to different habitats based on their needs and availability of food sources. They prefer warm and humid places, as these conditions suit their growth and reproduction.

Geographical Coverage

Wandering spiders are found in Central and South America .

They live in forests from Costa Rica to Argentina, including Colombia, Venezuela, The Guianas, Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia, Brazil, Paraguay, and Northern Argentina.

They may also be present in some parts of the United States, particularly in the northern part of southern America.

However, they don’t inhabit countries like Australia. In summary, the Wandering Spider is mostly prevalent in the following areas:

• South America
• Central America
• Southern parts of the United States

Types of Wandering Spiders

Here’s a brief description of the major types of wandering spiders.

Brazilian wandering spiders

Also known as armed or banana spiders, these spiders are nocturnal and don’t make webs.

They are known to have been transported outside of South America in banana shipments.

Phoneutria nigriventer

These spiders contain neurotoxins that can cause cerebral changes and breakdown of the blood-brain barrier .

Their venom is medically significant and has been used in manufacturing drugs. Their bites may be fatal to children.

Ctenus captiosus

Also known as the Florida false wolf spider or tropical wolf spider, this species is found in the United States.

Some species of these spiders are large and scary-looking, but they’re only mildly venomous. Their venom is comparable to a bee sting.

Other types of wandering spiders include: Acantheis, Acanthoctenus, Africactenus, and Afroneutria.

Behavior and Diet

Aggression level.

Wandering spiders, as their name suggests, are known for their aggressive behavior .

While they won’t attack without provocation, if they feel threatened, they will not hesitate to defend themselves.

This is especially true during mating season.

Prey and Predators

In their natural habitat, wandering spiders primarily feed on insects and small vertebrates, such as:

• Insects like ants and moths
• Small amphibians

This diverse diet allows them to thrive in various ecosystems.

However, they are not top predators, as their natural predators include larger birds, mammals, and other spiders.

Nocturnal Activities

Wandering spiders are nocturnal creatures , which means they are active during the night.

During the day, they remain hidden in their retreats, often made from rolled-up leaves or small crevices.

At night, they leave their hiding spots to search for prey using their strong hunting skills.

Venom and Its Effects

Composition of venom.

The venom of the wandering spider is a complex mixture containing several toxic components.

Its main component is a potent neurotoxin, which can have severe effects on your nervous system 1 . Here’s a brief overview of its composition:

• Neurotoxins

Symptoms and Severity

A wandering spider’s venomous bite can cause a wide range of symptoms, depending on the severity of envenomation. These symptoms may include 2 :

• Mild to moderate pain
• Redness and swelling at the bite site
• Irregular heartbeat
• Difficulty breathing
• Blurred vision
• High blood pressure

Some severe cases may result in life-threatening complications, such as respiratory failure or even death 2 .

Medical Treatment and Antivenom

If bitten by a wandering spider, it’s crucial to seek immediate medical attention. Treatment often involves the following steps:

• Cleaning and immobilizing the affected area
• Monitoring and managing the symptoms
• Administering antivenom if it’s available and appropriate, depending on the severity of envenomation 3

Antivenom is specific to the venom of the wandering spider and can help neutralize its effects.

However, the availability of antivenom may be limited in some regions 3 .

Always remember that prevention is better than cure: learning how to identify and avoid wandering spiders is the best way to stay safe.

Reproduction and Mating

Mating ritual.

When it’s time for reproduction, the wandering spider undergoes an intriguing mating ritual.

The male spider performs a dance to attract the female by displaying his brightly colored legs and vibrating his body.

During the process, the male also produces a sperm web and transfers his sperm to the female’s reproductive organs using his pedipalps.

Egg Sacs and Offspring

After the mating process, the female wandering spider will create an egg sac to protect her eggs.

The sac consists of silk and can hold hundreds of eggs. She then attaches it to a safe hiding place, usually against a protective surface or within a secure web.

The female often guards the egg sac to ensure the protection of her offspring until they hatch.

Once the spiderlings hatch, they are known to be highly independent.

They disperse quickly and start their own journey, fending for themselves soon after emerging from the egg sac.

As they grow, they’ll go through a series of molts before reaching adulthood and beginning their own reproductive cycle.

Danger and Defense Mechanisms

The Wandering Spider is known to be one of the most dangerous spiders in the world.

Although they can potentially kill humans, fatalities are rare due to their reluctance to bite.

Oddly enough, their venom can cause an involuntary erection in men, alongside other painful symptoms.

Here are some ways the Wandering Spider protects itself and displays its dangerous nature:

• Fangs : These spiders are equipped with strong, sharp fangs that can easily pierce human skin, allowing them to inject their venom with ease.
• Venom : Their venom is potent and can cause severe pain, inflammation, and other adverse effects. In rare cases, it can even lead to death.

While interacting with Wandering Spiders, be cautious and observe them from a safe distance.

Knowing their defense mechanisms will help you respect their space and avoid any unpleasant encounters.

Remember, it’s essential to be informed and aware when dealing with these fascinating, yet dangerous creatures.

Comparison with Other Dangerous Spiders

Comparison to black widow.

The black widow spider is notorious for its potent venom, but the wandering spider has a stronger venom overall.

Both spiders are capable of causing severe symptoms, but the black widow’s venom is primarily neurotoxic, affecting your nervous system.

In contrast, the wandering spider’s venom can cause both neurotoxic and cytotoxic effects, potentially damaging your nerves and cells.

• Potent neurotoxic venom
• Red hourglass marking
• Stronger venom (neurotoxic and cytotoxic)
• No distinct marking

Comparison to Brown Recluse

The brown recluse spider is known for its necrotic venom that can lead to tissue damage and sometimes requires medical intervention.

While both the brown recluse and wandering spider can produce venomous bites, wandering spiders are considered more dangerous due to the potency of their venom and the severity of their bite symptoms.

• Necrotic venom
• Dark violin-shaped marking

Comparison to Wolf Spider

Wolf spiders are frequently mistaken for more dangerous spiders due to their size and appearance.

Although they can bite, their venom is not particularly potent and generally only causes mild itching, redness, and swelling.

In comparison, the wandering spider’s venom is far more dangerous, and its bite can result in serious symptoms, requiring immediate medical attention.

• Large and hairy
• Smoother appearance

Comparison to Sydney Funnel-Web Spider

The Sydney funnel-web spider is another highly venomous spider known for its potentially lethal bites.

While both spiders possess powerful venom, the wandering spider has a broader range of symptoms due to the combination of neurotoxic and cytotoxic effects.

In conclusion, wandering spiders are more dangerous than wolf spiders but their venom’s effects are more varied compared to black widows, brown recluses, and Sydney funnel-web spiders.

Be cautious around these spiders and seek medical help if bitten.

Interesting Facts and Guinness World Records

The Wandering Spider, also known as the Brazilian Wandering Spider, is a fascinating creature that has caught the attention of many.

They belong to the genus Phoneutria , which means “murderess” in Greek, giving you an idea of their potency. Let’s explore some interesting facts about this spider and its place in the Guinness World Records.

First, you might be curious about their venom. The Wandering Spider is known for having one of the most potent venoms among spiders.

In fact, it holds the Guinness World Record for the most venomous spider. Their venom contains a potent neurotoxin that can cause severe symptoms, including difficulty breathing, high blood pressure, and intense pain.

Apart from their venom, their behavior is also quite intriguing. These spiders are called “wandering” because they are known for actively hunting their prey rather than spinning webs to catch them.

They are mostly nocturnal creatures and, during the day, can be found hiding in logs or dark crevices.

Here are a few more notable characteristics of the Wandering Spider:

• Females are larger than males, with a body length of up to 1.6 inches (4 cm).
• They have eight eyes, arranged in two rows, which help them in hunting.
• The Wandering Spider is primarily found in Central and South America, particularly in Brazil.
• They are known to show aggression when threatened.

While the Wandering Spider is a marvel of the arachnid world, it’s essential to keep a safe distance from them due to their venomous nature.

However, their unique characteristics and record-breaking venom potency make them a fascinating subject for those interested in the natural world.

Prevention and Safety Measures

To protect yourself from wandering spiders, there are some simple safety measures you can take.

Firstly, be cautious in areas where these spiders may live, such as dark and warm spaces. For example, avoid reaching into crevices or lifting piles of wood without inspecting them first.

Always wear appropriate shoes when outdoors, particularly in wooded or grassy areas. This can help prevent bites on your feet or ankles.

Reduce the risk of wandering spiders entering your home by sealing gaps and cracks. This minimizes the chance of the spiders finding a way inside.

Regularly clean your living spaces, paying special attention to dark and hidden areas. By maintaining a clean environment, you’ll discourage wandering spiders from making themselves at home.

When out in nature, avoid disturbing spider habitats like webs or egg sacs. This can prevent agitating wandering spiders, reducing your chance of accidental encounters.

Remember, wandering spiders can be dangerous, but by taking these precautions, you can significantly reduce your risk of encountering them or being bitten. Stay safe and always be aware of your surroundings.

In summary, wandering spiders, particularly those in the genus Phoneutria, are a group of venomous arachnids predominantly found in Central, South America and parts of Southern United States.

These spiders, including the Brazilian wandering spider, are known for their potent venom, nocturnal hunting habits, and aggressive defense mechanisms.

Their venom, containing neurotoxins and other components, can cause severe symptoms in humans, making them one of the most dangerous spider species.

Despite their fearsome reputation, fatalities are rare, and they play a vital role in their ecosystems.

It’s important to respect their space and take preventive measures to avoid encounters. Understanding these spiders’ behavior, habitat, and characteristics can help in appreciating their role in nature while ensuring safety.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2857337/ ↩

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3851068/ ↩ ↩ 2

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6560916/ ↩ ↩ 2

Reader Emails

Over the years, our website, whatsthatbug.com has received hundreds of letters and some interesting images asking us about wandering spiders. Scroll down to have a look at some of them.

Letter 1 – Wandering Spider from Ecuador

Hi Michele, There is a resemblance to the Dolomedes Fishing Spiders, and finding it near a river lends credence to that possibility. Eric Eaton noticed this posting and has this to say: ” Ok, the spiders from Ecuador and Costa Rica: They are most likely NOT wolf spiders, but wandering spiders, either in the family Ctenidae or Sparassidae. They tend to be more common, and even larger than, wolf spiders in the tropics. At least one species, Phoneutria fera, is extremely aggressive, with potentially deadly venom. Do not mess with large spiders in Central and South America! The venomous types are very difficult to distinguish from harmless species, and in any event, a bite is going to be really painful. These spiders sometimes stow away in bananas, houseplants, and other exported goods, so they can show up in odd places. Be careful where you put your hands.”

Update:  May 14, 2013 We now have a confirmation that this is a Wandering Spider, Phoneutria fera , and it is a dangerous species.  See Encyclopedia Britannica and Animal Corner .

Letter 2 – Brazilian Wandering Spider: Most Venomous Animal

Hi Martin, We are happy you were able to write to us after your encounter with this Brazilian Wandering Spider and are thrilled to be able to post your story and photos to our site. We started to research, and our first hit has a different species name. Phoneutria fera is described as: “The Brazilian Wandering Spider is not for the ‘pet keeper’. Brazilian Wandering Spiders are extremely fast, extremely venomous, and extremely aggressive. These large and dangerous true spiders are ranked among the most venomous spiders known to man. In fact, the Brazilian Wandering Spider is the most venomous spider in the New World! In South America, these true spiders are commonly encountered in peoples’ homes, supposedly hiding in peoples’ shoes, hats, and other clothes. The Brazilian Wandering Spider does not remain on a web, rather, it wanders the forest floor, hence the name.” Our favorite information on Wikipedia is that Phoneutria is Greek for “murderess”. Here is one final tidbit about the effect of the bite of the Brazilian Wandering Spider on the human male .

Letter 3 – Possibly Wandering Spider from Ecuador

Dear Mike, This is really an interesting Spider, but other than to say it appears to be a hunting spider that does not build a web to entrap prey, we aren’t sure about its identity.  Many hunting spiders can jump quite well.  It looks very much like the spider in a posting in our archives, also from Ecuador, that we identified as possibly a Wandering Spider in the genus Phoneutria, a venomous and potentially dangerous genus .  The spotted legs on your individual look like the spotted legs on an individual in an image on Wikipedia of a Wandering Spider in the genus Phoneutria .  There are many images of Brazilian Wandering Spiders on Primal Shutter and we believe that might be a correct identification for your individual.

Thank you for the information.  After reading more about the spider, I’m glad it didn’t jump! Mike

Letter 4 – Possibly Wandering Spider from Ecuador

Dear Carl, We believe, though we are not certain, that this might be a Wandering Spider in the genus Phoneutria, and you may read more about Wandering Spiders on the Museum für Naturkunde Karlsruhe website where it states:  “There is no doubt that the venom of some of the species is quite potent for mammals, including humans.”  We eagerly welcome additional opinions on this identification.  Perhaps Cesar Crash of Insetologia can provide something.  In the future, please submit a single species per submission form as it makes it extremely difficult for us to categorize postings with multiple species.

Letter 5 – Wandering Spider from Belize

Hi Karl, Thanks for allowing us to post your excellent image of a Wandering Spider, Cupiennius salei .  The species is pictured on iNaturalist .

Bugman aka Daniel Marlos has been identifying bugs since 1999. whatsthatbug.com is his passion project and it has helped millions of readers identify the bug that has been bugging them for over two decades. You can reach out to him through our Contact Page .

View all posts

Piyushi is a nature lover, blogger and traveler at heart. She lives in beautiful Canada with her family. Piyushi is an animal lover and loves to write about all creatures.

8 thoughts on “Wandering Spider: All You Need to Know in a Nutshell”

Hi Michele, I am an Ecuadorian scientist and specialized on spiders, I would like to find one like yours, I can say that, almost without doubt, you found the Phoneutria itself, it is the Phoneutria fera, look at this picture: http://www.google.com/imgres?imgurl=http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bFH9qzT0F7U/T_2sZuk6xAI/AAAAAAAAAGY/8jnMVcPOcNI/s1600/phoneutria_fera2.jpg&imgrefurl=http://rangerbaiano.blogspot.com/2012/07/animais-peconhentos-e-venenosos.html&usg=__iCWEz7S86xub6RAyvXTER6HBaco=&h=864&w=834&sz=215&hl=es-419&start=6&zoom=1&tbnid=jjOROVO9h-vKXM:&tbnh=145&tbnw=140&ei=99eRUY6xKo2K9QTLvYCoDQ&prev=/search%3Fq%3Dphoneutria%2Bfera%26sa%3DN%26hl%3Des-US%26sout%3D1%26tbm%3Disch%26prmd%3Divns&itbs=1&sa=X&ved=0CDYQrQMwBQ Can you see the similarities?, unfortunately the spider might be in a better life today 🙂 Another thing, when you want identifications you should take a picture in front, the under part, and the upper part, as well as some characteristics about behaviour like how they react when you approach. The Phoneutria is a very agressive one.. best wishes, bye.

Hi Miguel, Thanks so much for the comment. This is a seven year old posting and we did not have the ability to post comments when it was originally posted online. We have made an update on What’s That Bug? and your comment is greatly appreciated.

Ah, there is also needed the size and the picture of its face so we can see the eye arrangement, depending on that it could also be pisauridae, but I stay in Ctenidae..

This is a female Cupiennius sp. wandering spider.

Perhaps surprisingly, this ubiquitous large spider of the Mindo area appears to be undescribed to species level.

Although one is indeed best advised to exercise caution in the presence of large ctenids, members of the genus Cupiennius are not known to be dangerously venomous (Barth, 2002). By way of confirmation, my girlfriend, Shannon Bowley, managed to be bitten by a mature female of this Mindo species in 2013 – she felt only mild effects, equivalent to a bee sting.

Thanks for this valuable information.

I’m planning a trip to Ecuador and I’m fearing these spiders. Do they get in houses? Any tips to keep them out, so I can sleep at night?

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Brazilian Wandering Spider

• Development & Reproduction
• Classification/Phylogeny

Phoneutria fera

This website is home to the deadliest spider known to man: the Brazilian Wandering Spider. I hope you learn a lot about this intriguing, beautiful, yet dangerous creature and come back soon!!

Ecology & Interactions

Contact me:.

Jordan Johnson

• Email: [email protected]

 This website was produced through the Biology Department at the University of Wisconsin- La Crosse . See web pages similar to this about other interesting organisms here . All pictures and information on this web page were used with permission from their owner

These spiders lure in their prey in some very crafty ways

From pretending to be their prey’s prey (or their mate), to attracting prey with dazzling patterns, these tricky spiders don’t rely on their webs alone.

While many spiders wait for their web to ensnare prey wandering by, other spiders don’t leave their meals up to chance. These arachnids have subtle techniques to lure prey out of their comfort zone and into a trap.

“It’s really a sensory world” for both spiders and their prey, says Pierre-Olivier Montiglio , a behavioral ecologist at the University of Québec at Montréal. “Everybody's constantly eavesdropping and signaling, producing information and communicating it in some way or another.”

Spiders take advantage of this by using their looks, scent, and touch to trick gullible invertebrates straight into their eight arms.

Making webs that shimmer

Webs don’t need to be beautiful to be functional and capture food. But the intricacy of some spiders’ webs, like that of the orb-weaver spider s in the genus Argiope , plays a key role in luring prey to their doom.

Both in the field and in a laboratory setting, scientists have found that webs with more thick white silk band designs in the center hub are more attractive to some prey. The bands serve as decorations that reflect ultraviolet rays which insects are attracted to, according to Mariella Herberstein , a behavioral ecologist at Macquarie University.

The webs themselves are attractive to prey even in the dark, research shows. When testing the webs of Psechrus clavis spiders at night, researchers found that darkening the silk strands made them less attractive to insects flying by. In dark environments, more intricate webs showed they could capture what little light was available, the study shows.

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There’s variation in this technique, though, and data suggests decisions about web decorations are strategic. “Some spiders build decorations, and then if they have to build a new web, they might not decorate it again [or] they might decorate it more or less,” says Tom Ratz , a behavioral ecologist at the Ludwig-Maximilians University of Munich. For instance, when there were cues of are a lot of predatorsy birds in the environment, spiders were shown to tone down their decor spiders were shown to tone down their decor , indicating web design was not random.

Using color and patterns to mimic and dazzle

  Although many spiders sport dull shades, several species come clad in bright colors and eclectic patterns that help get their prey to come to them.

Jeweled spiders (genus Gasteracantha)   get their moniker because they are bedazzled with colors including white, orange, yellow, red, and pink. “They look like little lollies,” says Thomas White , an entomologist at The University of Sydney. “But it's a deceptive signal.”

When these gaudy spiders sit at the center of their woven web, insects passing by are enticed to go have a closer look. White’s work focuses on trying to pinpoint whether the insects are attracted to these vibrant-colored spiders because they’re simply attractive or because they resemble the specific flowers prey would go to for nectar. “It's a tricky thing to untangle,” says White, and it might be a little bit of both.

Studies suggest being colorful helps the nocturnal golden orb-weaver spiders ( Nephila pilipes ) and spotted orb-web spider ( Neoscona punctigera ) catch food too. The brown huntsman spider ( Heteropoda venatoria ), also uses color to deceive its prey: it has a shiny white stripe on its head to lure moths in the dark.

The crab spider species Epicadus heterogaster has evolved to look much like a dainty white flower resting on a leaf, and research suggests its abdomen glitters by reflecting the sun. This glimmer is imperceptible to the human eye, but catches the peepers of bees and flies.

Another species of crab spider, Phrynarachne , has evolved to look like bird droppings instead. While experts have long thought this was a trick to mainly evade predators, researchers have recently discovered it also effectively lures unsuspecting flies looking to lay their eggs in the poop or use it as a source of food.

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Some spiders have evolved to rely less on a potential prey’s eyesight and more on their sense of smell.

Bolas spiders (genus Mastophora ) love to munch on moths, but moths’ scaly outer layer of the wingskeeps them from sticking to spiderwebs. So adult female bolas have specialized in luring male moths by producing the pheromones made by female moths looking to mate. Once the moth gets closer to look for their potential partner, Bolas spiders reel them in with a sticky clump of specialized silk.

Different bolas spiders attract different types of moths, and some can attract several different types at once. For instance, Mastophora cornigera can lure in at least 19 different moth species in one single night.

“The question is whether they are producing a master brew of lots of different pheromones, or if they are fine-tuning their signal over the course of the day, or the season,” says Kenneth Haynes , an entomologist at the University of Kentucky. The species he’s studied the most, Mastophora hutchinsoni,   produces one type of pheromone early in the night for one moth species, and another completely different pheromone later in the night for another moth species.

Other spider species rely on scent signals to amp up their appeal too. Research suggests the St. Andrew's cross spider ( Argiope keyserlingi)   sprinkles its silky web with a rotting scent called putrescine to boost the number of flies it captures.

Acting like their prey’s prey or mate

Jumping spiders from the genera Portia , Cyrba, Gelotia, and Brettus like to eat other spider species. But they don’t lure their spider kin onto their own web; they pretend to be stuck in their prey’s web instead. They use their eight legs and two front pedipalps to meticulously pluck the strands to a rhythm that mimics the vibrations a tangled helpless critter would make, luring their spider prey out of its sheltered web center.

“They have an unlimited array of signals that they can make” by plucking their prey’s web, says Fiona Cross , an arachnologist at the University of Canterbury. If Portia spiders are striking a new type of spider, or if the prey isn’t responding, Portia can creatively adjust the signal in real time until it gets the right rhythm creatively adjust the signal in real time until it gets the right rhythm , according to Cross.

Portia fimbriata also use vibrations to pretend they’re a spider’s potential mate . When they find a nest of a female Euryattus spider—which consists of a rolled-up leaf suspended by a silk thread—they shake the greenery with the vibration signals used by male Euryattus in courting rituals. Portia can imitate this ritual without seeing it before, “even on its first attempt. It's incredible,” says Cross.

Given how cognitively complex these feats are for a critter with a brain the size of a pinhead, the intricacies experts have uncovered about spider behavior are likely just a small slice of all the impressive arachnid trickeries out there.

“It's really hard to actually demonstrate that spiders are using lures,” says Montiglio. “So I guess it’s a good hypothesis to have that the more we study spiders, the more we’ll find spiders are using lures.”

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• November 4, 2023

Discover the Fascinating World of Tarantula Hawk Wasp

Mavra Sheikh

Have you heard of the tarantula hawk wasp? This unique predator may not be a household name, but its remarkable characteristics are worth exploring. In this section, we will delve into the world of the tarantula hawk wasp, providing interesting facts about this intriguing insect.

Table of Contents

The tarantula hawk wasp belongs to the family Pompilidae, and there are several species of these wasps found throughout the world. They are known for their distinctive appearance, formidable sting, and unique hunting techniques. Let’s dive into some tarantula hawk wasp facts to learn more about this fascinating creature.

Key Takeaways:

• The tarantula hawk wasp is a unique predator known for its distinctive appearance, formidable sting, and unique hunting techniques.
• There are several species of tarantula hawk wasps found throughout the world.
• In this section, we will explore the physical appearance and behavior patterns of tarantula hawk wasps.
• Stay tuned to learn about the natural habitat, predators, and life cycle of this intriguing insect.
• Don’t believe the myths about the tarantula hawk wasp sting, we will provide accurate information about the intensity and effects of their sting.

Insect Characteristics of Tarantula Hawk Wasps

Tarantula hawk wasps are some of the most fascinating insects in the world. With their distinctive appearance and unique traits, they stand out among their peers. Let’s explore some of the key insect characteristics of tarantula hawk wasps.

One of the most interesting things about tarantula hawk wasps is their ability to paralyze and kill tarantulas several times their size. They do this by injecting a venom into their prey, which renders them immobile but doesn’t kill them right away. The wasp then lays her eggs on the tarantula’s body and buries it in a hole, where the larvae hatch and feed on the still-living spider.

Despite their fearsome reputation, tarantula hawk wasps are actually quite docile and will only sting when provoked or threatened. In fact, they are often considered beneficial to humans because of their role in controlling tarantula populations.

Distinctive Traits

In addition to their physical characteristics, tarantula hawk wasps have some unique traits that set them apart from other wasp species:

• Flight: Tarantula hawk wasps have a distinctive flight pattern that makes them easy to identify. They fly in a zig-zag pattern, almost like a drunken bee.
• Sting: As mentioned earlier, tarantula hawk wasps have a painful sting that is rated as one of the most painful insect stings in the world. However, their sting is not usually fatal to humans.
• Size: As one of the largest wasp species in the world, tarantula hawk wasps are an impressive sight to behold.

Overall, tarantula hawk wasps are a fascinating species with a range of unique characteristics that make them stand out from other insects. Whether you’re studying them for scientific purposes or simply admiring their beauty, these creatures are truly amazing.

Sting Pain Level and Behavior Patterns

The tarantula hawk wasp is known for its excruciating sting, which has been described as one of the most painful insect stings in the world. The pain is so intense that it can render its prey paralyzed for several minutes, providing an opportunity for the wasp to drag it to a safe location for consumption.

The sting of a tarantula hawk wasp is rated as a level 4 on the Schmidt sting pain index, which is a scale of 0-4 that measures the intensity of insect stings. The pain has been described as electric and piercing, with a duration of up to five minutes.

Despite their fearsome reputation, tarantula hawk wasps are not aggressive towards humans and will only sting if provoked or threatened. They typically exhibit non-aggressive behavior towards other insects as well, preferring to avoid confrontation whenever possible.

“The tarantula hawk wasp is a solitary creature that spends most of its time alone, hunting and feeding.”

During mating season, male tarantula hawk wasps can be seen engaging in aerial battles with other males over territory and access to females. These battles are often intense and can last for several minutes, with the winner earning the right to mate.

After mating, female tarantula hawk wasps will search for tarantulas to lay their eggs on. They will typically target paralyzed tarantulas that have been stung by the female wasp, dragging them back to their nest where they lay a single egg on the spider’s abdomen.

Once the egg hatches, the larva will burrow into the spider’s body and feed on its tissues, eventually killing it. The larva will then pupate and emerge as an adult wasp.

Overall, the behavior of tarantula hawk wasps is fascinating and complex, with a highly developed set of instincts and behaviors that allow them to survive and thrive in their natural habitat.

Natural Habitat and Predators of Tarantula Hawk Wasps

Tarantula hawk wasps thrive in hot and arid regions, primarily in the Americas, including the southwestern United States, Mexico, and Central and South America. These wasps prefer open, sandy areas such as deserts, grasslands, and scrublands. They can also be found in mountainous regions up to 10,000 feet above sea level.

While tarantula hawk wasps have few natural predators due to their potent sting, their primary threat comes from parasitic wasps, which lay their eggs on tarantula hawk wasp larvae. Once hatched, the parasitic wasp larvae feed on the tarantula hawk wasp larvae, eventually killing them. Additionally, some birds and mammals, such as roadrunners and coatis, may prey on adult tarantula hawk wasps.

Tarantula Hawk Wasp vs. Parasitic Wasp

Despite their impressive size and sting, tarantula hawk wasps are not immune to predators and face challenges in the wild. Parasitic wasps, in particular, pose a significant threat to their survival.

Life Cycle and Reproduction of Tarantula Hawk Wasps

Tarantula hawk wasps follow a unique life cycle, starting from when the female lays an egg on or near a paralyzed tarantula. The larvae feed on the tarantula until pupation, after which an adult wasp emerges. Let’s take a closer look at the individual stages of their life cycle.

The egg-laying process of tarantula hawk wasps is quite fascinating. The female wasp will sting a tarantula to paralyze it but not kill it. She will then lay an egg on the tarantula’s abdomen and leave the paralyzed spider.

After a few days, the egg will hatch, and the larva will burrow into the tarantula’s body to feed on its internal organs.

Larval Stage

The larval stage is critical for the development of tarantula hawk wasps. The larva feeds on the paralyzed tarantula, slowly consuming its internal organs. This process continues for about two weeks until the larva is ready to pupate.

Pupal Stage

The pupal stage is when the larva metamorphoses into an adult wasp. During this stage, the larva will spin a cocoon around itself for protection while it transitions into an adult wasp.

Adult Stage

Once the adult wasp emerges from the cocoon, its primary goal is to mate and reproduce. The lifespan of a tarantula hawk wasp is quite short, ranging from two to four months, during which they must hunt, mate and reproduce.

Reproduction

During the adult stage, the female tarantula hawk wasp will search for a paralyzed tarantula, onto which she will lay an egg. The male wasp will then attempt to mate with the female. Once successful, the female will fly to a suitable location to lay her egg. This process repeats until the female has laid all of her eggs.

Female tarantula hawk wasps possess a long stinger, which they use to paralyze their prey. While their sting is incredibly painful, they rarely sting humans unless provoked.

Food Sources and Hunting Techniques

Tarantula hawk wasps are unique predators with specific dietary needs. As their name suggests, they primarily feed on tarantulas, specifically the female species. The wasps locate their prey by scent and vision, searching for tarantula burrows during the day when tarantulas are typically inactive.

Once a tarantula has been located, the wasp begins to approach the spider cautiously, fully aware of the risk involved. Tarantulas are formidable opponents, and a wrong move can result in death for the wasp. To avoid being attacked, the wasp uses its long, powerful legs to grapple with the tarantula, while simultaneously delivering a paralyzing sting to the spider’s abdomen.

The wasp’s sting contains a potent neurotoxin that immediately immobilizes the tarantula, allowing the wasp to transport it to a safe location. The wasp lays its eggs on the tarantula’s body, and when they hatch, the larvae feed on the paralyzed spider, consuming it from the inside out.

It’s important to note that despite their deadly hunting abilities, tarantula hawk wasps are not aggressive towards humans unless provoked. In fact, they are beneficial to the ecosystem, as they help control tarantula populations and assist in the pollination of plants.

The Predator-Prey Relationship

The relationship between tarantula hawk wasps and tarantulas is fascinating and complex. While the wasps rely on tarantulas for their primary food source, they also play a crucial role in shaping tarantula behavior.

Studies have shown that the presence of tarantula hawk wasps influences tarantula activity and habitat selection. Tarantulas will avoid areas where they have previously encountered the wasp, indicating that they are aware of the potential danger. This behavior is an example of how predator-prey relationships can have a significant impact on the behavior and survival of both species.

“Tarantula hawk wasps are remarkable predators with unique hunting techniques. Their ability to subdue tarantulas is a testament to their strength and agility.”

Tarantula Hawk Wasp Sting: Myth vs Reality

There are many myths surrounding the sting of the tarantula hawk wasp, but what is the reality? Let’s debunk some of the most common misconceptions:

Myth: The sting of a tarantula hawk wasp is the most painful sting in the world.

Reality: While it is true that the sting of the tarantula hawk wasp is incredibly painful, it is not the most painful sting in the world. This title belongs to the bullet ant.

However, it is important to note that the pain caused by the tarantula hawk wasp sting is described as one of the most excruciating experiences by those who have been stung. The pain can last for several minutes to an hour, and can even cause temporary paralysis.

Myth: The sting of a tarantula hawk wasp is deadly.

Reality: The sting of a tarantula hawk wasp is not deadly to humans. While it can be incredibly painful, the venom is not toxic enough to cause serious harm. However, it is important to seek medical attention if you are stung and experience any severe symptoms or allergic reactions.

Despite the intense pain caused by the tarantula hawk wasp sting, it is interesting to note that these wasps are not aggressive towards humans. They will only sting if they feel threatened or provoked.

One interesting fact about the tarantula hawk wasp is that they have a symbiotic relationship with tarantulas. They rely on these spiders as a primary food source, but they also use them for reproduction. The female wasp will sting a tarantula and lay her eggs inside the spider’s body. When the larvae hatch, they feed on the still-living tarantula, eventually killing it.

As you can see, there are many misconceptions surrounding the tarantula hawk wasp sting. While it is certainly a painful experience, it is not deadly to humans. These wasps play an important role in their ecosystem and are a fascinating species to learn about.

Tarantula Hawk Wasp vs Tarantula: A Battle of Giants

The tarantula hawk wasp is a fierce predator known for its ability to take down tarantulas, one of the largest spiders in the world. Despite their intimidating size, tarantulas are no match for the tarantula hawk wasp’s cunning hunting techniques and potent sting.

When a tarantula hawk wasp hunts a tarantula, it uses a combination of agility and precision to take down its prey. The wasp relies on its exceptional vision to locate the tarantula, often finding them in their burrows or wandering on the ground. It then uses its sharp mandibles to grab onto the tarantula and deliver a paralyzing sting to its nervous system.

Despite the tarantula hawk wasp’s venomous sting, tarantulas can put up quite a fight. The spider’s tough exoskeleton provides significant protection against the wasp’s attack, making it challenging for the wasp to inject its venom.

Tarantula Hawk Wasp and Tarantula: A Battle of Strategies

Because of the tarantula’s formidable defense mechanisms, the tarantula hawk wasp has developed unique strategies to overcome its prey. One such strategy is to inject its venom into the spider’s nerve center, effectively disabling its motor functions. This enables the wasp to deliver a second sting to the tarantula’s vital organs, ultimately killing it.

Another strategy employed by the tarantula hawk wasp is to lure the tarantula out of its burrow, where it has less protection. The wasp will deliberately aggravate the spider until it chases after the wasp, giving the wasp an opportunity to deliver a paralyzing sting.

The battle between the tarantula hawk wasp and the tarantula is a fascinating example of predator-prey interactions in the wild. Despite the wasp’s success in hunting tarantulas, the spider’s physical adaptations prove that nature always finds a way to balance the scales of power.

“The battle between the tarantula hawk wasp and the tarantula is a fascinating example of predator-prey interactions in the wild.”

In conclusion, the tarantula hawk wasp is a fascinating and unique predator with many remarkable characteristics. Despite their intimidating reputation, these wasps play an important role in the ecosystem, controlling populations of tarantulas and other insects.

It is important to note that there are several different species of tarantula hawk wasps, each with their own distinct physical and behavioral characteristics. Differentiating between these species can be a challenge, but it is essential in understanding their role in the ecosystem and developing effective conservation strategies.

The interactions between tarantula hawk wasps and tarantulas are a fascinating example of predator-prey relationships in nature. Both species have evolved unique adaptations and strategies to increase their chances of survival during these encounters.

While the sting of the tarantula hawk wasp is notorious for its intensity, it is important to separate fact from myth and understand the true nature of their behavior. By educating ourselves about these fascinating creatures, we can develop a greater appreciation for the intricate balance of life in the natural world.

What is a tarantula hawk wasp?

A tarantula hawk wasp is a large, solitary wasp known for its unique hunting behavior and potent sting.

How big are tarantula hawk wasps?

Tarantula hawk wasps are one of the largest wasp species, with a body length ranging from 1 to 2 inches.

Are tarantula hawk wasps dangerous to humans?

While tarantula hawk wasps have a painful sting, they are not generally aggressive towards humans unless provoked.

Where do tarantula hawk wasps live?

Tarantula hawk wasps can be found in various regions around the world, including the southwestern United States, Central and South America, Africa, and Asia.

How do tarantula hawk wasps hunt tarantulas?

Tarantula hawk wasps locate and sting tarantulas to paralyze them, laying their eggs on the immobilized spider. The larvae then feed on the tarantula as they develop.

Can tarantula hawk wasps kill tarantulas?

Yes, tarantula hawk wasps can kill tarantulas with their paralyzing sting. However, the primary purpose of their sting is to provide food for their offspring.

What do tarantula hawk wasps eat?

Tarantula hawk wasps primarily feed on nectar from flowers, but the females also require the nutrients from tarantula blood to reproduce.

How long do tarantula hawk wasps live?

The lifespan of a tarantula hawk wasp can vary depending on the species, but it typically ranges from a few months to a year.

Are tarantula hawk wasps beneficial to the environment?

Yes, tarantula hawk wasps play a vital role in controlling the population of tarantulas and other spider species, contributing to the balance of ecosystems where they reside.

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• Introduction
• Systematics
• Acanthocteninae
• Acantheinae
• Calocteninae
• Centroctenus
• Privacy Policy
• Viridasiinae
• Natural History
• Distribution
• Drawings and Photos
• Ctenus dubius
• Ctenus amphora
• Ctenus crulsi
• Ctenus inaja
• Ctenus maculisternis
• Ctenus manauara
• Ctenus minor
• Ctenus nigritus
• Ctenus serratipes
• Ctenus villasboasi
• Phoneutria boliviensis
• Phoneutria fera
• Phoneutria reidyi
• Phoneutria keyserlingi
• Phoneutria nigriventer
• Contributors

New: Photos of female genitalia

Phoneutria - introduction

Phoneutria has probably the worst reputation among the araneomorph spiders. In almost every published text, even in some non-fiction books covering this subject, they are described as "extremely dangerous", "extremely aggressive" and "(most-) toxic", "highly venomous", or just "deadly". There are also dozens of "true" field reports giving the impression that these spiders must be the pure evil. But this is actually just half the truth.

Talking about Phoneutria , we have to be aware that there are now (2021) nine (valid) species, with different genetics, geographic distribution, habitat preferences, biology and natural history traits and that information we find just under “ Phoneutria ” is indiscriminately generalized (undifferentiated) information and might not be true for all the species in the genus. Recently Hazzi & Hormiga (2021) revealed that most studies on P. boliviensis actually refer to the revalidated sister species P. depilata .

Why are Phoneutria spiders so impressive?

Most Phoneutria species are quite large, and as a matter of fact the genus comprises the largest known araneomorph spiders. With a total body length of about 5 cm and a leg span of about 18 cm, some Phoneutria species earn the record of world's largest true spider, at least regarding body weight and body size (some sparassids and some Ancylometes have a greater leg span).

Phoneutria species show a distinctive defence behaviour (full thread display, see picture below), when they feel threatened. This behaviour is a "back-off"-signal that (if being ignored) will sooner or later lead to a biting attempt of the spider.

However, it should be emphasised here, that this behaviour is primarily defensive, although often mistaken for aggression. In rational terms, Phoneutria spiders only do the same as many other animals: They try to defend themselves when being threatened. At most some have a very low threshold to feel disturbed or threatened.

Important is that the spiders do not (attempt to) bite people by chance. Rather the opposite - from a spider's perspective it is quite costly to "waste" venom on humans. It takes time and energy to produce the venom which primarily serves to immobilize and eventually kill the prey and a spider that spent its venom on uneatable things may be unable to overcome prey soon after and may therefore have to hunger for a while. So, a spider should only be "willing" to give a "full bite", with venom injection, when it really feels threatened, like when it seems to be a matter of life and death (from the spider's perspective). And this is how biting accidents happen: People unaware of the spider's presence, make movements towards the spider, or even get a hold of them accidently, while e.g. sorting bananas. The nocturnal spider that seconds before was sitting in a banana stalk, hiding from the daylight, now finds itself in a stressful situation, threatened to be crushed/killed by the five-fingered predator that is now having the spider in its grip. The natural response of the spider to such a situation is a bite.

There is no doubt that the venom of some of the species is quite potent for mammals, including humans. Since there is not much information available about the evolution of these spiders, e.g. what triggered their defensiveness or their venom composition, we have to keep in mind that it may be a result of co-evolution of prey-predator interactions. Due to their size and the abundance of small amphibians, reptiles and mammals in their tropical environment it might have been an evolutionary advantage to have venom components effective on vertebrates. In combination with colour signals and defence behaviour (typical alarming of Phoneutria ), an effect of the venom on mammals was maybe evolutionarily “requested”. In fact there are mammalian predators of large wandering spiders, not us, but the coatis (Procyonidae - raccoons) and other small insectivore mammals. Hence, our “sensitivity” to the spider’s venom is probably just a coincidence (read more under toxicity ).