What Is the Brazilian Wandering Spider?

The Brazilian wandering spider is a genus of spider known to be one of the most venomous animals in the world. As the name implies, this spider is native to Central and South America, specifically in the tropical regions. Its genus name is Phoneutria, a Greek word that means “murderess.” Researchers have recorded eight different species of this wandering spider, the most venomous of which is the Phoneutria nigriventer, the latter word meaning “black belly.” The Brazilian wandering spider is also known as the “armed spider” or “aranhas-armadeiras” in Portuguese.

In 2010, Guinness World Records™ recorded this spider to be the most lethal arachnid in the world, but its deadliness can be easily underestimated due to its small size. Its average size would be 5 inches (around 12.7 cm), with its legs taking up most of its length. Its long legs enable the spider to scurry at a fast speed, with the little hairs across the body helping the spider feel its way around. One of its distinctive physical traits is its prominent fangs that are covered in red bristles. Like many spiders, the wandering spider also has eight eyes, out of which two are bigger.

The Brazilian wandering spider is called such because it is indeed a wanderer. At night, it would usually crawl all over the forest in search of preys such as insects, lizards, and even mice. One can say that this spider is a nomad, as it does not make and live in webs, preferring to actively roam around instead; this is why tropical forests like the Amazon usually do not have spider webs strewn from tree to tree. These spiders are likely to wander so much that they have been seen in banana bunches shipped to the US, garnering them the nickname “banana spiders.” During the day, these spiders usually disappear in dark places such as hollowed logs, termite hills, and even inside the shoes, clothes, and stacks of firewood.

The venom produced by the Brazilian wandering spider is so toxic that only as small amount, 0.00000021 oz. (around .006 mg), is needed to kill an average-sized mouse. The spider bite, aside from being toxic, is also said to be extremely painful, owing to the large fangs of the wandering spider. The venom can cause paralysis and breathing difficulty, which can ultimately result in death. Spider bites can be especially dangerous for men as they can cause priapism, a medical condition wherein the penis experiences a painful and prolonged erection that can lead to impotence. What makes the Brazilian wandering spider more dangerous to humans is that it can be found in highly-populated communities in South America.

The Brazilian Wandering Spider, also known as Phoneutria, is a genus of venomous spiders found in South and Central America. They are known for their highly toxic venom and their unusual behavior of wandering the jungle floor at night instead of residing in a lair or maintaining a web.

The Brazilian Wandering Spider is considered one of the most venomous spiders in the world. Its venom contains a potent neurotoxin known as PhTx3, which can cause severe pain, inflammation, and medical complications. However, fatalities are rare due to the effectiveness of antivenom and the spider's reluctance to deliver a full dose of venom.

Brazilian Wandering Spiders are native to tropical regions of South and Central America. They are often found in a variety of habitats ranging from banana plantations to urban areas. Their name comes from their tendency to roam the forest floor at night, rather than spinning webs or hiding in burrows.

If bitten by a Brazilian Wandering Spider, it's crucial to seek immediate medical attention. While bites can be serious, the availability of antivenom has significantly reduced the risk of severe outcomes. Remain calm, immobilize the affected area, and get to a healthcare facility where antivenom can be administered if necessary.

Brazilian Wandering Spiders are nocturnal and actively hunt their prey at night. They do not use webs to catch food; instead, they rely on their speed and potent venom to subdue insects, other spiders, and sometimes small vertebrates. During the day, they may hide in dark and moist places like under logs or in shoes.

Brazilian Wandering Spiders are often considered aggressive due to their defensive behavior when threatened. They may display a threat posture by raising their front legs and showing their fangs. However, they typically prefer to flee rather than bite, and bites usually occur when the spider is inadvertently pressed against human skin.