"Stay Safe: Brazilian Wandering Spiders - Bites & Precautions"

 Brazilian Wandering Spiders: Bites & More

Brazilian wandering spiders don't spin webs but instead roam the forest floor at night hunting prey, which they paralyze with toxic venom.

Brazilian Wandering Spiders: Also known as armed spiders or banana spiders, they rank among the most venomous spiders globally. These spiders inflict painful bites with neurotoxic venom, which can prove fatal, especially to children. However, immediate medical attention can usually prevent death with antivenom.

Brazilian wandering spiders belong to the genus Phoneutria, which translates to "murderess" in Greek. They are notably aggressive.

Classification/Taxonomy

There exist nine species of Brazilian wandering spiders, nocturnal creatures primarily found in Brazil. Some species extend their habitat across Central and South America. However, there have been cases of misidentification with harmless banana spiders, especially in exported banana shipments.

Size & Characteristics

Brazilian wandering spiders are sizable, with bodies up to 2 inches and leg spans up to 7 inches. Their coloration varies, typically brown or gray, with some species featuring light-colored spots on their abdomen. Many have distinctive black and yellow or white bands on the underside of their front legs.

Behavior

Wandering spiders shun web-building, instead opting to hunt actively on the forest floor. They hide during the day and emerge at night to prey on insects, other spiders, and occasionally small amphibians, reptiles, or mice.

Mating

In Brazilian wandering spiders, females typically outweigh males. Mating rituals involve cautious approaches by males, who perform a dance to attract females. However, females often reject numerous suitors before selecting a mate. Post-copulation, males risk attack from females.

Bites and Venom

Brazilian wandering spiders possess venom comprising various toxins, proteins, and peptides. Their bites induce severe pain, sweating, and systemic symptoms like blood pressure fluctuations, nausea, and convulsions. Seeking medical aid is crucial post-bite.

Their venom famously induces painful, prolonged erections. Scientists are exploring its potential for treating erectile dysfunction in non-responsive cases to Viagra.

Envenomations are rare, with most cases being mild and not requiring antivenom. However, bites from these spiders can lead to severe symptoms and even death in rare instances.