"Beware: Encounter with the Giant Huntsman Spider!"

Giant Huntsman Spider: The World's Largest Spider by Leg Span

Giant huntsman spiders are the biggest members of the Sparassidae family, with legs spanning up to 12 inches — about the size of a dinner plate.

Details

Giant huntsman spiders, scientifically known as Heteropoda maxima, boast legs as wide as a dinner plate. Unlike many spiders, they actively hunt prey, chasing them down with their long legs. Once caught, they inject venom and consume their meal.

Key Facts

These spiders, part of the Sparassidae family, consist of over 1,300 species and are found in warm climates worldwide.

The giant huntsman spider holds the record for the largest known huntsman spider and the widest leg span, growing up to 11.8 inches. Although it's the spider with the biggest leg span, the heaviest recorded spider is the goliath birdeater tarantula.

Discovery

Discovered in Laos in 2001 by arachnologist Peter Jäger, the giant huntsman spider is elusive and primarily inhabits caves.

Appearance

Huntsman spiders are often mistaken for tarantulas due to their size, but their legs are splayed out to the sides, resembling crabs. They also have twisted leg joints, enabling them to move sideways.

Conclusion

Huntsman spiders, with their unique hunting style and impressive size, continue to fascinate researchers and enthusiasts alike.