brazilian wandering spider on bananas

Fact Animal

Facts About Animals

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.

Animal Corner

Discover the many amazing animals that live on our planet.

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.

Check out more  animals that begin with the letter B

More Fascinating Animals to Learn About

About joanne spencer.

I've always been passionate about animals which led me to a career in training and behaviour. As an animal professional I'm committed to improving relationships between people and animals to bring them more happiness.

March 24, 2009

Do dangerous spiders lurk in grocery store produce?

A potentially lethal spider was recently found in a bunch of bananas at a supermarket. What should consumers should do if confronted with one of the leggy critters?

By Erica Westly

On supporting science journalism

If you're enjoying this article, consider supporting our award-winning journalism by subscribing . By purchasing a subscription you are helping to ensure the future of impactful stories about the discoveries and ideas shaping our world today.

Last week, a store manager at a Whole Foods in Tulsa, Okla., was surprised—to say the least—to find a large brown spider lurking in a bunch of bananas . The spider was initially identified as a Brazilian wandering spider ,  a menacing-looking creature with furry fangs and legs as long as five inches (12.5 centimeters) that is considered to be one of the world's most venomous spiders, and one of the few that can kill humans. (Luckily, an anti-venom to the Brazilian’s bite was developed in 1996.) According to the Tulsa World , two local entomologists in the end determined that the invader was more likely a huntsman spider , which is large and brownish in color like the Brazilian wandering, but is nontoxic to humans. Each year, there are several news reports of wandering and huntsman spiders, the main "banana spiders," showing up in grocery store bananas as well as poisonous black widows , which find their way into bunches of grapes on store shelves. Both fruits are generally sprayed with pesticides to prevent insect infestation and usually washed before shipment. Still, even with these precautions and visual inspections, some insects manage to survive. What draws spiders to bananas and grapes—and what should consumers and produce workers who find the potentially deadly critters in their fruit do? To find out, we spoke with Linda Rayor , a spider expert and senior research associate  in Cornell University's entomology department. [ An edited transcript of the interview follows. ] How common is it to find a spider in grocery store fruit—and are spiders more common in grapes and bananas from certain regions? For the bananas, you have a reasonable chance of getting them in ones imported from anywhere in Central or South America, the main sources of the fruit. I have no idea of the actual risk, but there are different types of wandering and huntsman spiders throughout Latin America. You pretty much have a chance of getting black widows—which are found all over the world—in grapes anywhere they grow. Is there something else about grapes that black widows find especially appealing? Spiders are going to be found anywhere that there are insects for them to eat—and there are plenty of insects on grapes. They're very common in vineyards around the world. Grape arbors (the supports between grapevines) provide really great support systems for spider webs—they're perfect for cobweb-building spiders like the black widow—and the grapes make great hiding places. (Black widow bites can be toxic to humans, but they’re not nearly as dangerous as those from the most poisonous wandering spiders. They can cause intense pain and shortness of breath, but are rarely lethal in healthy adults.) How about bananas? Banana trees have these tightly coiled leaves coming up, and then the banana flowers lean down over that. Well, these banana leaves turn out to be just dandy places for these spiders to live, especially ones that hang out on the leaves. The leaves have this kind of hollow center, so a lot of the spiders hang out in the central, deep-covered hole during the day and then come out at night to hunt on the outside of the leaf. Neither one of them are web-building spiders, and so they just kind of hang out on the leaves at night and nab things that wander or fly by. There are two common groups that are both referred to as "banana spiders," but they're totally different from one another. The first group is the wandering spiders, which is the family Ctenidae, or ctenids. The other is an entirely different family, the Sparassidae, which are the huntsman spiders. They're both big spiders that have relatively long legs. They can both easily be the size of the palm of your hand, no problem. Is there an easy way to tell the two types of banana spiders apart? In one description of the spider in Tulsa, the store manager said it jumped at him. That is so much more like wandering than the huntsman spiders. Huntsmans back off and then run away sideways really fast. They're fast, but they're not aggressive. Huntsmans are big enough [for their bites] to break the skin. I've probably been bitten by huntsmans—I work with Australian huntsman spiders—I don't know, five times? It hurts because it breaks the skin, but their venom is really nothing much, and they're not really inclined to bite at all. When a wandering spider is threatened, though, it tends to rear up so its front legs go up in the air in a pretty feisty way, often with its fangs open. It's really scary. So, you've got very, very different behaviors. The huntsman spiders are also different in appearance. Most spiders stand up on all eight legs, but the huntsman spider's legs are rotated so that they're horizontal to the body. This allows them to get really flat to the ground and to move sideways really effectively. In fact, in the U.S. they're sometimes called "giant crab spiders," because they can scuttle around like crabs. The wandering spiders have normal legs that aren't rotated like the huntsman spiders' legs, so they're clearly standing upright, and the underside of the wanderings' front legs, at least in some of their species, is often brightly colored in reds or yellows. It's a warning coloration. What should consumers do if they encounter one of these spiders in their fruit? It's like anything: you have to pay attention to what you're doing and make sure you rinse off your fruit. The wandering and huntsman spiders are both pretty big, so you wouldn't miss them. Black widows are much easier to miss, because they're about the size of a grape. Black widows are really fast in webs, but they're pretty inadequate on the ground. They really can't run on the ground at all. Their abdomens are just too big, so they kind of waddle around. So a black widow is more inclined to simply drop off the web or off a grape into, say, your sink. And then, once on the ground, it's not going anywhere fast. Wandering spiders and huntsman spiders are really fast, and they do just fine on the ground. Now, I'm personally not all that big on squishing these guys. I think it's a whole lot more interesting to get them in a jar and get them identified. Spiders don’t naturally attack humans, so the risk of getting bitten is very low. Basically, people shouldn’t worry too much. Black widows, for example, are really shy. They only bite when they perceive a threat, such as a hand trying to grab them. You should try to get the offending spider to drop on the ground and quickly scoop it up into a large container (just as you would with any other spider). If a black widow does bite you, wait 15 minutes to see if she (only the females are toxic enough to harm humans) has actually injected venom in you--it starts to really hurt.  That is the advice given by Poison Control in Arizona.  Then go to an emergency room where they can provide antivenom or palliative treatment. Evidently, when a Brazilian wandering spider bites, it hurts immediately, so you go to the doctor or emergency room with the spider if possible,  It’s always best for people to bring the spider with them, so the hospital can provide the correct treatment. (For more tips see the CDC’s guide on venomous spiders .) Could stores or shippers do more to keep spiders out of our bananas and grapes? I'm not sure what more could be done. A lot of the insects on these fruits are being doused with chemicals or washed before shipping. For example, before bananas are shipped, they are taken off the plant, put in a water trough to wash them off and then they're packed in large shipping containers, which are kept quite cool. Grapes are shipped at cooler temperatures, too. What will happen is that the spiders at those lower temperatures become quiescent. Some may be dying, but a lot of animals can take cold temperatures for awhile. Both bananas and grapes are sold at the grocery not chilled. So, basically, what you've got is spiders that have been cooled pretty much until they've reached the grocery that are waking up. How dangerous are most spiders? What's important to keep in mind is that truly a small portion of spiders are dangerous to humans. Basically, most spiders can't do a whole lot. They can't break the skin or their venom doesn't react with human physiology. It's estimated that 50 percent of all spider bites don't even inject venom, and they are unlikely to go after humans. Still, you wouldn't want to be bitten by a wandering spider, Brazilian or otherwise. There are wandering spiders all over Latin America, where most bananas come from, the Brazilian wandering spider, or Phoneutria nigriventer , is only found on the Atlantic coast of Brazil, not in Honduras, where the bananas at the Tulsa store came from. The chances of encountering one are really very slim.

• MORE Rabbits & Furry Friends Fish Horses Other Pets Random Article
• Rabbits & Furry Friends

How to Identify a Banana Spider

Last Updated: March 29, 2019 Approved

This article was co-authored by wikiHow Staff . Our trained team of editors and researchers validate articles for accuracy and comprehensiveness. wikiHow's Content Management Team carefully monitors the work from our editorial staff to ensure that each article is backed by trusted research and meets our high quality standards. There are 9 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. wikiHow marks an article as reader-approved once it receives enough positive feedback. In this case, 81% of readers who voted found the article helpful, earning it our reader-approved status. This article has been viewed 581,199 times.

The name “banana spider” is used to refer to a number of different spiders and spider genera that are found throughout the globe. Many banana spiders are locally called thus because they are colored like bananas or found in banana trees. So depending on where you live in the world, banana spiders could refer to golden orb-weavers, members of the Cupiennius genus, Brazilian wandering spiders, or Hawaiian garden spiders.

Identifying Golden Orb-Weavers

• Africa and Madagascar
• South America
• North America (in the southern United States) [4] X Research source

Identifying the Cupiennius Genus

• While these spiders are not dangerous to humans, they are often mistaken for the venomous Phoneutria, or Brazilian wandering, spiders.

Identifying Brazilian Wandering Spiders

• Brazilian wandering spiders are a danger to humans, and are known as one of the most venomous spiders on Earth. However, there is anti-venom to treat their bites. [7] X Research source

Identifying Hawaiian Garden Spiders

Community Q&A

You Might Also Like

• ↑ http://planetsave.com/2013/06/14/banana-spider-golden-silk-orb-weaver-facts-pictures-bite-effects-etc/
• ↑ http://www.inaturalist.org/taxa/49758-Nephila
• ↑ http://spiders.ucr.edu/banana.html
• ↑ http://www.livescience.com/41591-brazilian-wandering-spiders.html
• ↑ https://animalcorner.co.uk/animals/brazilian-wandering-spider/
• ↑ http://www.spidersworlds.com/brazilian-wandering-spider/
• ↑ http://www.insectidentification.org/insect-description.asp?identification=Hawaiian-Garden-Spider
• ↑ http://ednieuw.home.xs4all.nl/Spiders/ArgiopesUS/Argiopes_USA.html
• ↑ http://www.mauijungalow.com/2011/12/argiope-appensa-spider-with-yellow-star.html#.VfHIEPTU0g4

About this article

To spot a golden orb-weaver banana spider, which are found in areas like North America and Asia, look for spiders with red, yellow, or white bellies, and a leg span of up to 6 inches. To identify a Cupiennius spider, often seen in Mexico, keep an eye out for small spiders between ¼ inch to 1 ½ inches that have bright red hairs on their legs and mouths. For venomous Brazilian wandering spiders, look for brown, hairy spiders about 5 inches in size, which will sometimes sit with 2 front legs lifted in the air. For more info on banana spiders, like how to spot a Hawaiian garden spider, keep reading! Did this summary help you? Yes No

Reader Success Stories

Teresa Carter Benton

Jul 18, 2017

Did this article help you?

Shirley Gross

Aug 3, 2017

Steve Shuman

Jul 31, 2017

Janet Warner

Aug 24, 2017

Bryce Dodge

Jun 8, 2017

• About wikiHow
• Terms of Use
• Privacy Policy
• Do Not Sell or Share My Info
• Not Selling Info

Brazilian Wandering Spider: Care, Food, Habitat & Preventions

Mike Wallace

Have you ever heard of or do you know what a  Brazilian wandering spider is ? It is a big venomous spider from places like Central and South America, and people sometimes call it the  banana spider . Why? Well, we are about to find out!

Table of Contents

These wandering spiders are aggressive hunters who go out on the hunt at night. Their meals include both invertebrates (like insects) and vertebrates (creatures with a backbone, like small animals).

These spiders are super dangerous because their venom is like a powerful potion that can make people really sick or even worse. They usually hang out in tropical rainforests and even in cities, hiding in banana plants. 

So, let’s get more information about the world of this sneaky spider to learn the details about its looks, eating habits, where it lives, the venom it carries, and find out if it is genuinely risky. Ready to explore? Keep reading!

Brazilian Wandering Spider Description:

Scientific name and family:.

In Brazil, they are sometimes known as “ armed spiders ” (armadeiras), and they share the name “ banana spiders ” with a few other spiders. They have different names, but they are all talking about the same interesting spider!

The Brazilian wandering spider, scientifically known as  Phoneutria , Maximilian Perty kickstarted the Phoneutria genus in 1833. The name comes from the Greek word φονεύτρια , which means “murderess” and falls under the Animalia kingdom, Arthropoda phylum, and Arachnida class.

Within Arachnida, it is classified in the order Araneae, infraorder Araneomorphae, and Ctenidae family. The genus Phoneutria, described by Perty in 1833, includes the type species  Phoneutria fera .

This classification helps us understand where these spiders fit into the larger picture of living organisms.

The following 9 species are accepted by The  World Spider Catalog :

• Phoneutria bahiensis
• Phoneutria boliviensis
• Phoneutria eickstedtae
• Phoneutria fera
• Phoneutria keyserlingi
• Phoneutria nigriventer
• Phoneutria pertyi
• Phoneutria reidyi
• Phoneutria depilata

What do Brazilian Wandering Spider look like?

Size range:.

The spiders in the Phoneutria group can get pretty big in size. Their legs can stretch out to be 13 to 18 centimeters (5 to 7 inches) wide, and their bodies can have a range between 17 to 48 millimeters (a little more than half an inch to almost 2 inches) long.

The female Brazilian spiders can get pretty big, reaching up to 15 centimeters (5.9 inches) in length. On the other hand, the males are smaller, usually measuring around 7 centimeters (2.8 inches). They usually weigh up to 0.21 ounces.

They have long, slender legs, and even though some other spiders with different names might have longer legs, the Phoneutria spiders are champions when it comes to having the longest bodies and being the heaviest in their spider gang.

The spider’s body has two main parts. The first is the prosoma, kind of like its “head,” where you will find all eight legs, eyes, fangs (chelicera), and little multitasking arms (pedipalps).

The second part is the opisthosoma, holding the spinnerets for making silk, the back end opening (anal opening), “the lungs,” the heart, and the important bits for making baby spiders (reproductive organs).

So, the prosoma is like the front control center, and the opisthosoma is like the back office, handling things like silk-making and baby-making.

Brazilian spiders come in different colors, with most being hairy and shades of brown and gray. Some species may have lightly colored spots on their abdomen.

A distinctive feature of many species is the presence of bands of black and yellow or white on the underside of their two front legs.

Identification:

To identify a spider from the Phoneutria group, look for a dense brush of fine hairs on their leg parts. They might seem like other spiders, especially  Cupiennius , but here is how you can differentiate: 

• Phoneutria often have a dark line on the front of their palps and a thin black line on top of their head. 
• Check underneath, too; their legs usually have dark parts and light joints. Sometimes, the belly has black dots or is reddish. 
• Usually it has been observed that when they are upset, they do a cool defensive move like lifting their front legs high with a distinctive pattern. So, if you see a spider doing that dance, it is probably a Phoneutria!

Brazilian Wandering Spiders live all over the Americas, from Costa Rica to northern Argentina. They are like the residents of the jungle, chilling in forests east of the Andes in countries like Colombia, Venezuela, Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia, Brazil, Paraguay, and the Guianas.

Some, like P. reidyi, P. boliviensis, and P. fera, love the Amazon rainforest, while others prefer the Atlantic Forest in Argentina, Paraguay, and Brazil.

They have also made themselves at home in the Cerrado savanna. But if you head to northeastern Brazil, they are not around. These spiders have even taken trips to Chile and Uruguay.

Why are they called Banana Spiders?

These spiders are linked with bananas. Richard S. Vetter, a researcher at the University of California, found that these powerful spiders sometimes end up in North America and Europe by accident, hitching a ride in banana shipments.

But it is often a case of mistaken identity. Only a few Phoneutria species have been found in banana shipments, and sometimes, other spiders get the blame due to misidentification. 

What They Like to Eat or Hunt?

Their food includes flies, beetles, butterflies, moths, grasshoppers, locusts, and crickets. Occasionally, they might even feast on small creatures like amphibians, reptiles, or mice. All these diet or food findings tell us about how diversified eating habits these fascinating spiders have.

Mating and Lifecycle:

Like most spiders, the female spiders are bigger than the males. When the male spider wants to be friends, they do a little dance (vibrating his pedipalps and specialized sensory appendages) to signal his intentions to impress the female, but it is a cautious approach.

The behavior of the female can be choosy, and she might say no to a few before picking the right one. 

After the dance, sometimes, the females decide to attack them, or if she is interested, she can store the male’s baby-making material in a special place until she is ready to use it.

Then, she lays a bunch of eggs, up to 1,000 at a time, and keeps them safe in a silk egg sac. Sadly, after laying her eggs, the mom spider says goodbye. It is her way of making sure the new spiders are ready to explore the world on their own.

The lifespan of the banana spider (Phoneutria nigriventer) differs for males and females. Females usually live for 6 to 8 weeks after reaching maturity, while males have a shorter lifespan of 2 to 3 weeks after their last molt. 

Certain mammals, like coatis (Procyonidae, which includes raccoons) and other small insectivores, birds are potential predators of large wandering spiders.

These spiders got their name as wandering spiders because of the fact that they are not into web building. Instead, they stroll around the forest floor at night(nocturnal), searching for dinner.

Brazilian Wandering Spiders are active hunters and use both ambush tactics and direct attacks to catch their prey. During the day, they prefer cozy spots like under logs or in crevices, only emerging at night for their hunting adventures. These spiders do not build nests like other spider species.

While wandering spiders are not naturally aggressive towards humans, they won’t hesitate to bite if they feel cornered or threatened. Most bites happen when a spider accidentally gets trapped in clothing or bedding. 

Bite and Venom:

The bite of the armed spider is the most dangerous in the world as the venom it carries can be harmful to humans.

The danger is not just about how strong the venom is; it is also about factors like the spider’s likelihood to bite and how close it is to where people live.

These spiders often hide in houses, clothes, and other dark places during the day, making accidental bites more likely. 

While their fangs are adapted for small prey, some experts think they might give a “dry” bite in defense to save venom. Studies suggest that not all bites inject venom, and serious cases requiring antivenom are rare.

However, there have been confirmed cases of death, with symptoms appearing quickly, including:

• Severe pain
• Breathing difficulties
• Increased heart rate and blood pressure
• In severe cases, paralysis and death

The severity can depend on the spider’s sex, with females generally more dangerous. The spiders produce less venom in colder months, and a small amount can be potent enough to harm.

Fortunately, bites from Brazilian spiders are rare, and when they do occur, the exposure to the toxins is generally mild, as explained by Vetter.

Also Read: What is a Huntsman Spider? (Heteropodidae) – The Ultimate Guide

Banana Spider’s Facts:

Below are essential details about Brazilian wandering spiders:

• They hold the title for the world’s largest spiders , boasting leg spans reaching up to 15 centimeters (6 inches).
• Their venom packs a powerful punch, capable of inducing severe pain, paralysis, and, in extreme cases, fatal outcomes for humans.
• Despite their intimidating reputation, they are generally non-aggressive and resort to biting only when provoked.
• These spiders inhabit tropical rainforests and urban areas across Central and South America.
• In case someone has been bitten by this spider, he/she needs quick medical treatment to control the effects timely.

Treatment and Preventive Measures:

If bitten by a wandering spider or armed spiders, prompt medical attention is crucial. There is an antivenom for the spider’s venom, but its effectiveness is highest when administered within a few hours of the bite.

To prevent a bite:

• Wear protective clothing, use shoes and long pants when in areas where these spiders are found.
• Before wearing your clothes and shoes, make sure to check them to ensure no spiders are hiding.
• Maintain cleanliness and avoid leaving food or garbage exposed, as this can attract spiders.

These preventive measures are essential for minimizing the risk of encountering and getting bitten by Banana spiders.

Can Brazilian spiders kill humans?

Brazilian wandering spiders (Phoneutria nigriventer) are venomous and can potentially kill a human with a single bite. Their venom contains a potent neurotoxin that can cause severe pain, paralysis, and even death. 

Are Brazilian spiders poisonous?

Yes the venom of this spider is poisonous, that can cause death. While Brazilian wandering spiders are potentially dangerous, actual bites are relatively rare.

By adopting preventive measures and promptly seeking medical attention if bitten, the risk of serious complications can be significantly reduced.

Can you keep Brazilian spiders as pets?

It is strongly advised against keeping wandering spiders as pets due to their venomous nature and the potential risk to human safety.

Managing these spiders in captivity demands specialized knowledge and handling procedures to minimize the risk of bites.

Final Thoughts:

The Brazilian wandering spider, banana spider, or armed spider is a large and venomous arachnid found in Central and South America. While their potent venom can be harmful to humans, encounters are rare.

These nocturnal hunters have adopted various habitats, from rainforests to urban areas, and are associated with banana shipments. Understanding their appearance, behavior, and habitat is crucial for minimizing risks.

Seeking immediate medical attention after a bite is essential, as antivenom is available but most effective when administered promptly. Despite their fearsome reputation, the Brazilian spider remains a captivating and potentially dangerous species.

About the author

Spiders Planet is the ultimate source of information about spiders! All the articles on this site will provide you with the most accurate and up-to-date information written by me and a group of writers, that is well-researched and fact-checked before it’s published.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Latest posts

Do Spiders Eat Fruit? Unveiling the Secrets

The connection between animals and fruits showcases a captivating example of mutualism, a win-win relationship where both parties benefit. Animals gain access to…

Are Woodlouse Spiders Venomous?

The Woodlouse spider (Dysdera crocata) is a spider species that mainly hunts and feeds on woodlice and is mostly found in Africa, Asia,…

What Does Wolf Spiders Eat?

Wolf spiders are excellent hunters of small insects. Unlike spiders that weave intricate webs, these predators rely on sharp vision and stealthy moves…

Spider Research

Department of Entomology

Deadly Banana Spiders !!!!!!!!!  Or not

Updated 3 aug 2015.

Every once in a while in North America, a large spider (or a spider egg sac) is found in international cargo, most commonly in bananas.  The spider is collected and taken to a local “authority” who typically has no arachnological experience. A quick search of the Internet leads the “authority” to identify the spider as a deadly armed or wandering spider of Brazil (genus  Phoneutria ) and then, panic and hyperbolic media coverage ensues.  However, most of the time, these incidents are misidentifications of harmless spiders.  This is due in part to the dynamic nature of being associated with a potential dangerous animal.  People like to jump to the exciting conclusion that they are dealing with a “deadly” creature.  Another contributor to the hyperbole is that a quick identification is understandably forced by a desire to know if the spider is indeed dangerous so that cargo crews will not suffer envenomations and cargo can then be unloaded before it decays (in the case of fruit).  People then err on the side of the fantastic rather than caution. 

Information regarding spiders collected from bananas can be found in the two articles below, which can be obtained from me in PDF form with an email request.   [email protected]

Vetter, R.S. and S. Hillebrecht.  2008. On distinguishing two often-misidentified genera ( Cupiennius ,  Phoneutria ) (Araneae: Ctenidae) of large spiders found in Central and South American cargo shipments. American Entomologist 54: 82-87.

Vetter, R. S., R. L. Crawford and D. J. Buckle. 2014. Spiders (Araneae) found in bananas and other international cargo submitted to North American arachnologists for identification. Journal of Medical Entomology 51: 1136-1143.

Information on spider egg sacs found on bananas is also presented below but read through the information on the spiders first

Armed spiders (Genus  Phoneutria )

Spiders of the genus  Phoneutria  cause the greatest concern. Typically, harmless spiders are misidentified as  Phoneutria  spiders when intercepted in cargo.  The reason for this misidentification is the well-known fact that some species of  Phoneutria  have red hairs on their chelicerae (the two structures below the eyes on the “face” which have fangs at the end). Unfortunately, these are not the only large spiders found in bananas that have these red hairs. Because almost no one in North America has the proper identification publications for South American spiders, they turn to either the Internet (where the spiders are often already misidentified) or the Golden Guide to Spiders, a very rudimentary identification guide. 

The dangers associated with these spiders for North Americans are very much overexaggerated.  First, the most cited dangerous species is  Phoneutria fera .  This is actually an Amazonian species, (i.e., it lives in the Brazilian Amazon) far from areas of human commerce and the Brazilian banana plantations and, therefore, they don’t have the opportunity to be transported in cargo, or at least are highly unlikely to be so moved.  In Germany from decades ago, specimens listed as imported  P. fera  were most likely misidentified specimens of other  Phoneutria  species.  (One must also keep in mind that  Phoneutria  taxonomy has been a nightmare for the last century with new species being named and other names being absorbed by other existing species, back and forth almost like an Abbott and Costello comedy routine.  It is really difficult sometimes to pin down a name because for some spider groups, the taxonomy is not yet settled).  The spiders intercepted in Germany were most likely specimens of  P. nigriventer  and  P. keyserlingi , which are only found on the Atlantic coast of Brazil and are mostly involved in Brazilian envenomations.  All three of these spiders can get up to 50 mm in body length.  However, they still are not nearly as deadly as people claim.  In one study of 422  Phoneutria  bites in coastal Brazil, only 2.3% of the victims required antivenom and the only death was one small child. Although there is an obvious major concern when children are bitten, most bite victims experienced minor problems without long-lasting effects and certainly not death. Most of the bites were in adults; minor symptoms resolved without complications.

Although these large spiders were transported in bananas to Europe many years ago, currently, Brazil consumes almost all of its banana crop domestically so now there is less chance for the spiders to be transported out of the country, at least in fruit.

On the west coast of South America, another species,  P. boliviensis , exists and has occasionally been transported in cargo to North America (mostly from Ecuador).  However, in comparison to its eastern relatives, this species is smaller (30 mm body length) and its envenomation effects are milder.  A paper on bites in plantation workers revealed annoying symptoms but no deaths.  Workers missed 2 to 3 days of work.  So even if these spiders were transported to North America, they are not considered very dangerous and should not cause concern.

To summarize:

• The dangerous species of  Phoneutria  are found in the Amazon where interaction with people is rare and transport out of the country in commerce is highly unlikely. 
• The two species associated with high human population on the eastern Brazilian coast cause human envenomations but are not as dangerous as they are reported to be.  Although they can cause death in young children, most bite victims experience mild reactions.
• Brazil no longer exports much of their banana crop.
• The western South American species of  Phoneutria  is much smaller than the eastern species and although sometimes is transported, it is not a major medical concern when bites occur.
• All  Phoneutria  species are virtually restricted to South America.  If a spider is found in a banana shipment from Central America, then it is highly unlikely to be a  Phoneutria  spider (see next section)

Cupiennius  spiders

These are the spiders that are most frequently mistaken as  Phoneutria  spiders.  They are large, found in banana shipments and one species,  Cupiennius chiapanensis , has bright red hairs on its chelicerae.  One major contributing factor to the confusion is that  C. chiapanensis  was only officially described in 2006 so only a few arachnologists in Central America were aware of this spider. There are other species,  C. getazi , and  C. coccineus,  which have sometimes been transported to North America in bananas.  The large species of  Cupiennius,  which are most frequently found in banana shipments in North America, live exclusively in Central America.  They have characteristic coloration:

Cupiennius chiapanensis - bright red hairs on chelicerae

Cupiennius getazi - underside of legs near body has black dots on white background

Cupiennius coccineus -   underside of front legs near body has bright red hairs

Cupiennius getazi

However, because  C. chiapanensis  has bright red hairs on the chelicerae and was only recently described, almost no sources have accurate information on this spider.  Hence, it looks closest to  Phoneutria fera  and then the hysteria starts.  I am aware of 6 cases where a North American arachnologist (including myself) as well as several Mexican authors made misidentifications, most of which came before 2006.  No species of  Cupiennius  spider is considered dangerous and verified bites result in mild pain for a short time with no long-lasting effects. 

• Cupiennius  spiders are often found in banana shipments to North America but are harmless.
• Cupiennius  spiders are virtually restricted to Central America or at least the ones that end up in banana shipments come only from Central America.
• Cupiennius chiapanensis  has only been officially known since 2006 and is frequently mistaken as the potentially dangerous  Phoneutria fera , even by experienced arachnologists because both spider species have red hairs on their chelicerae.

Huntsman spider,  Heteropoda venatoria

This spider is established worldwide in tropical areas including Hawaii and Florida.  It is frequently found in cargo shipments of all kinds and in bananas is common from Ecuador.  It has a white “moustache” under its eyes and holds it legs rotated to the side like a crab.  The males and females have strikingly different coloration. These spiders are harmless.

Summary for the entire page so far

• If you have a large spider found in bananas from a country in Central America, it is most probably going to be a harmless species of the genus  Cupiennius .
• If you have a large spider found in bananas from western South America (i.e., Ecuador), if it has a white moustache, it is the harmless huntsman spider,  Heteropoda venatoria.    If large but with no moustache, possibly it is  Phoneutria boliviensis,  which is of minor medical concern but could also be one of several other non-related species.
• You can’t use the red facial hairs alone to accurately identify a large spider found in bananas.
• None of these spiders are deadly.

Spider egg sacs found on bananas

 In the last few years, there have been more incidences of egg sacs found on bananas brought into North America.  Most of these are crushed during shipment but on occasion a few survive transport and babies can hatch out of them, causing panic in the home owner.  And once again, people who have no arachnological training immediately identify these egg sacs as the hyperbolically-dangerous  Phoneutria fera  spider.  First of all, the general public is notoriously bad in identifying spiders in bananas when comparing pictures.  Considering how there is almost nothing in the scientific literature on egg sacs of these spiders, it is really amazing that people are so assured that they have correctly identified the egg sac to one species of spider. 

In regard to this, I have personally seen 10 to 20 egg sacs from bananas, several with live spiderlings.  I was not successful in raising the babies; they wouldn’t eat anything that I offered them including each other and I have reared thousands of baby spiders of other species to adulthood in my career.  So people freak out because they fear that these spiders will establish in their homes, when I couldn’t get them to eat anything to get them to the next instar (stage between molts).

In addition, the egg sacs that I have been receiving have about 50 to 200 eggs inside. According to a paper in the  Journal of Arachnology ,  Phoneutria boliviensis , (the small  Phoneutria  spider) lays an average of 836 eggs in its egg sac with a range of 430 to 1300 eggs.  So the egg sacs that I have been receiving are much smaller than the smallest  Phoneutria  egg sac.  Also, from the spiderlings that I have examined, they look closest to a small harmless spider genus,  Acanthoctenus .  But because these spiders are so small and hard to identify, there is also the possibility that they are being laid by some other species that is never found in bananas so we have no idea what species it is. 

But the overall message here is that the egg sacs that have been coming through in bananas do not appear to be anything dangerous and the reports of  “deadly” banana spiderlings being found by home owners is just another case of misidentification and unwarranted media hyperbole.

Did 'Deadly' Spider Eggs Really Hitch a Ride on Imported Bananas?

It's enough to make you do a double take the next time you unpack your groceries! A recent British news report claimed that imported bananas could play host to a certain species of venomous spiders.

A woman in Essex, England, recently discovered that a bunch of bananas delivered to her home by a local grocer was infested with spider eggs. Pest control was called and reportedly identified the eggs as those belonging to the "immense and deadly" Brazilian wandering spider , according to MSN New Zealand .

But don't let this eerie tale come between you and your favorite fruit. It's unlikely that the woman's bananas were truly infested with deadly spider eggs, said Richard Vetter, a retired research associate of entomology at the University of California, Riverside. [ Creepy, Crawly & Incredible: Photos of Spiders ]

There are several reasons why fruit lovers should think twice before believing stories about scary spiders found in the produce aisle, Vetter told Live Science. For one thing, in this particular case, no spider was found hanging around the bananas, making it nearly impossible to know what kind of spider (if there even was a spider) had laid the enigmatic eggs.

"Egg sacks are much harder to identify than spiders. To identify them, you need familiarity with the spider first, then the egg sack," Vetter said. It's unlikely that British exterminators would be intimately familiar with the egg sacks of spiders from South and Central America, he added.

However, it is possible that the eggs in question belonged to an arachnid, Vetter said. There are several genera of spider that sometimes survive the long trip from banana-producing nations — such as Brazil, Mexico, Nicaragua and Costa Rica — to other parts of the world. Among them are Phoneutria and Cupiennius , two types of spiders that are commonly known as wandering spiders.

Wandering spiders are named for their tendency to wander around looking for food instead of spinning a web. As nocturnal hunters, both Phoneutria and Cupiennius sometimes seek out shelter during the day under the broad leaves of banana trees. And because of their preference for these fruit trees, species of both genera at times wind up in grocery stores and residences in Europe and North America, Vetter said.

Sign up for the Live Science daily newsletter now

Get the world’s most fascinating discoveries delivered straight to your inbox.

Typically, when one of these big, hairy spiders shows up overseas, it automatically gets labeled as a "deadly" Brazilian wandering spider without anyone identifying what genus or species the spider belongs to, Vetter said. And that's a shame, he said, because only one of the two genera of  wandering spiders, Phoneutria , contains species that could actually pose a threat to humans. The other genus, Cupiennius , contains some big, but totally harmless, spiders . 

"There are 12 species of Phoneutria , which are found mostly in South America, including the eastern coast of Brazil. A small number of them also go into Costa Rica," Vetter said. However, few of these spiders pose a significant risk to humans , he added.

Still, there is a type of Brazilian wandering spider, called Phoneutria fera, that is widely considered to be the most dangerous spider on Earth. The species lives in the middle of the Amazon rainforest , far from banana-producing areas. While it isn't impossible for this spider to find its way to England or other foreign nations inside a banana crate, it's highly unlikely, Vetter said.

There are also two other species of Phoneutria commonly labeled as "deadly" — P. nigriventer and P. keyserlingi . These spiders live on the eastern coast of Brazil, near centers of banana production, but their reputations as deadly pests are greatly exaggerated, Vetter said.

" Somebody did a study in Eastern Brazil back in 2000 that looked at 422 Brazilian wandering spider bites . The only people to die from the bites were two small children," Vetter said. The adult victims of this notorious arachnid experienced either mild symptoms or no symptoms at all, he said.

And there's one other fact that makes the recent British report seem unlikely. Brazilian wandering spiders are only found in Brazil, and the country consumes most of its banana crop domestically, Vetter said.

" I don’t know where England gets its bananas from, but Brazil does not export many bananas," Vetter said. If the bananas in question came from Ecuador — the world's largest exporter of bananas — or any other banana-producing nation, then those eggs didn't belong to one of the "deadly" species of Brazilian wandering spiders, he added.

Follow Elizabeth Palermo @ techEpalermo . Follow Live Science @livescience , Facebook  & Google+ . Original article on Live Science .

Elizabeth is a former Live Science associate editor and current director of audience development at the Chamber of Commerce. She graduated with a bachelor of arts degree from George Washington University. Elizabeth has traveled throughout the Americas, studying political systems and indigenous cultures and teaching English to students of all ages.

Giant, invasive Joro spiders with 6-foot webs could be poised to take over US cities, scientists warn

Diving bell spider: The only aquatic arachnid that creates a web underwater to live in

Why do earthquakes happen far away from plate boundaries?

Most Popular

• 2 Meta just stuck its AI somewhere you didn't expect it — a pair of Ray-Ban smart glasses
• 3 2,500-year-old Illyrian helmet found in burial mound likely caused 'awe in the enemy'
• 4 Cave of Crystals: The deadly cavern in Mexico dubbed 'the Sistine Chapel of crystals'
• 5 'The most critically harmful fungi to humans': How the rise of C. auris was inevitable
• 2 Why can't we see the far side of the moon?
• 3 Space photo of the week: 'God's Hand' leaves astronomers scratching their heads
• 4 Papua New Guineans, genetically isolated for 50,000 years, carry Denisovan genes that help their immune system, study suggests
• 5 Massive study of 8,000 cats reveals which breeds live longest

Brazilian Wandering Spider Found in Bunch of Bananas

News: a cocoon of brazilian wandering spiders was found in a bunch of tesco bananas., david mikkelson, published march 12, 2015.

On 10 March 2015, Maria Layton posted a disturbing image on Tesco's Facebook page showing what she identified as a Brazilian wandering spider egg cocoon she found on one of the bananas she had purchased from one of the chain's stores:

According to the Telegraph , the eggs in the cocoon started hatching shortly after Layton discovered them, whereupon the 43-year-old mother of two sealed the spider-infested bananas in a container and placed them in her freezer. She maintained that the arachnids were Brazilian wandering spiders ("the most poisonous in the world") after conducting a Google search and called Tesco to complain about the potentially deadly bananas she had purchased.

When she received little help from customer service, she posted the above-displayed image on Facebook along with a message urging Tesco to remedy the problem:

I just found this on a banana my husband bought from tesco. Does it look like a spider cocoon to anyone? I called Tesco three times and was told to bring it back to the store. I opened the bag and chucked it in the bin before I spotted this thing. Should I take the bin to the store too and my fruit bowl? Would Tesco like to come round to check whether any baby spiders are in our house?  

Although Tesco attempted to resolve the issue, the company did not send anyone to Layton's residence to take care of the spiders:

"Our policy is for the customer to take the product to the store where it can be investigated. We don't have a service whereby someone can go out to the home."  

The Brazilian wandering spider was named the world's most venomous spider by the Guinness Book of World Records in 2010. Although the spider's bite can be deadly, its venom is currently being studied for use in erectile dysfunction medication.

Last updated:   12 March 2015

By David Mikkelson

David Mikkelson founded the site now known as snopes.com back in 1994.

Article Tags

5 Types of Banana Spiders (From Harmless to Venomous)

If you’re confused about banana spiders, you’re not alone. Turns out that there are at least 5 types of spiders commonly called banana spiders depending on where you live. Here’s what you need to know about range and venom levels.

Guide to Banana Spiders (All Types)

To help clear the confusion, let’s dive into the following banana spider facts.

1. Golden silk orb-weaver spiders

• Common name: Golden silk orb-weaver spiders
• Latin name: Nephila
• Also known as Golden silk orb-weaver, giant wood spider, calico spider, writing spider
• Venomous: Not harmful to humans
• Range: Warmer regions throughout Asia, Africa, Australia, and the Americas
• Size: Body length: 1.5 to 2 inches (4.8 to 5.1 cm)
• Unique feature: Strong, impressive webs

What does a golden silk orb-weaver banana spider look like? These spiders feature cylindrical bodies. Females are much larger than the mostly-brown males and have yellow and white abdomens and long, skinny legs that are striped with yellow and brown bands.

Chances are if you live in a warm region of the world, you’ve seen one of these golden silk orb-weavers that are often called banana spiders as well as various other names.

Much larger than their brown male counterparts, the females are the most striking because of the coloring on their bodies and their long, slender legs.

Most likely, it’s the webs of these spiders that catch your attention because they’re often quite large with intricate designs. If you’ve ever accidentally walked into one, you know how strong they are because they’re hard to get off your face.

Did you know these spiders can even adjust the hue of their webs according to the local sunlight conditions in order to catch prey by surprise? How’s that for some pretty cool banana spider facts?

Nephila spiders usually won’t bite you unless you poke at them and threaten them. Their bites may sting and cause redness, but their venom is mild and not harmful to healthy humans.

2. Cupiennius (Banana Spider)

• Common name: Banana spider
• Latin name: Cupiennius (genus)
• Also known as Red-faced banana spider
• Venomous: Mild, comparable to a bee sting
• Range: South and Central America
• Size: Body length: 0.35 inches (9 mm) to 1.6 inches (40 mm)
• Unique feature: Vivid red hairs on chelicerae (mouthparts). Frequently mistaken for Phoneutria  spiders

What does a Cupiennius banana spider look like? Spiders of the Cupiennius genus are usually large with brown, furry bodies and long, skinny legs. Some species of this genus are distinguished from other similar spiders by the bright red hairs on their mouthparts.

Native to Central and South America, Cupiennius is a genus of spiders broadly called banana spiders because bananas are the plants on which these spiders are most often found.

It’s quite common for workers in other countries to discover these spiders in imported banana shipments. Cupiennius are also called hunting spiders or huntsman spiders because they hunt their prey instead of spinning webs.

There are eleven species of the Cupiennius banana spider. In brackets is their known range.

• Cupiennius bimaculatus (Colombia, Venezuela, Brazil, Guyana, Ecuador )
• Cupiennius chiapanensis (Mexico)
• Cupiennius coccineus ( Costa Rica to Colombia)
• Cupiennius cubae (Cuba, Costa Rica to Venezuela)
• Cupiennius foliatus (Costa Rica, Panama)
• Cupiennius getazi (Costa Rica, Panama)
• Cupiennius granadensis (Costa Rica to Colombia)
• Cupiennius remedius (Guatemala)
• Cupiennius salei (Mexico, Central America, Hispaniola)
• Cupiennius valentinei (Panama)
• Cupiennius vodou (Hispaniola)

If you don’t know your spider types, you might freak out, mistaking one of these for the more venomous spider, the Phoneutria (Brazilian wandering spider).

The two look similar, but you can distinguish the Cupiennius by its bright red mouthparts . Some species of Cupiennius spiders are large and scary-looking, but they’re only mildly venomous. The effect of their venom to a human is comparable to that of a bee sting.

3. Hawaiian garden spider

• Common name: Hawaiian garden spider
• Latin name: Argiope appensa
• Also known as orb-weaving spider, banana spider
• Range: Pacific Ocean, in Hawaii, Taiwan, Australia, New Caledonia, New Guinea, Indonesia
• Size: Length including body and legs: 0.75 to 2.5 inches (1.9 to 6.4 cm)
• Unique feature: Webs with zig-zag designs

What does a Hawaiian garden banana spider look like? Males are small and brown. The much larger females are yellow and black with a body shaped like a king’s crown.

If you don’t live on any of the islands of the Pacific Ocean, you probably won’t see a Hawaiian garden spider because that’s where they call home.

At first glance, you might think this spider looks the same as one of the Nephila orb-weaver spiders because the females have similar black and yellow stripes. Take a second look, and you’ll notice that their bodies are not cylindrical like the Nephila but have the shape of a king’s crown.

Another way to tell the Hawaiian garden spider from other orb-weaver spider types is by their webs. These spiders know how to make their webs durable by weaving them with a distinctive zig-zag design.

Hawaiian garden spiders are not harmful to you unless you’re a bug. If you spot one in your garden, you should let it alone because they prey upon insects that eat plants and flowers.

4. Golden silk-orb weaver

• Common name: Golden silk-orb weaver
• Latin name: Trichonephila clavipes
• Also known as Banana spider
• Range: North, Central, and South America
• Size: Body length: 0.31 to 2 inches (8 to 50 mm)
• Unique feature: Clumps of dark hair on legs

What does a Trichonephila clavipes banana spider look like? These spiders are similar to the black and yellow Nephila but have longer, darker, and less yellow bodies.

Officially regrouped within the Trichonephila genus, this silk orb-weaver was previously classified as a Nephila species. That’s no wonder since it looks similar to the black and yellow Nephila .

Upon careful observation, you’ll see that this species features a longer body that is also darker in color with less yellow. It’s also known for the clumps of dark hair on its legs which are common among its genus.

Trichonephila clavipes live in the range from the southeastern USA throughout Central America and all the way to Argentina in South America, but they can also be found as far north as Eastern Canada in the summer.

Although this spider may look threatening, it is not aggressive. It will only bite if it’s handled roughly, and its venom is harmless to humans, causing only slight redness to the bite area.

5. Brazilian wandering spider

• Common name: Brazilian wandering spider
• Latin name: Phoneutria
• Also known as Armed spider, huntsman spider, banana spider
• Venomous: Extremely venomous
• Range: Central America and northern South America
• Size: Leg span: 5.1 to 7.1 inches (130 to 180 mm); Body length: 0.67 to 1.89 inches (17 to 48 mm)
• Unique feature: Dangerous venom that could be fatal to humans

What does a Brazilian wandering spider banana spider look like? Phoneutria are large, brown and hairy spiders with long legs and are recognized by the patch of dense, fine hair on their pedipalps (pair of appendages adjacent to the chelicerae mouthparts)

Another genus of spiders commonly called banana spiders because they’re often discovered in banana shipments, Phoneutria spiders have much in common with Cupiennius .

Their found in Central and South America, they’re large, hairy, and brown, and they also hunt their prey at night instead of using webs. Plus, the species, Phoneutria fera , features bright red mouthparts like Cupiennius .

Aside from the similarities, it’s vitally important that you recognize the differences between these two spider types. Although incidents are rare, bites from Phoneutria can be dangerously toxic to humans and have been known to be fatal to young children.

Fortunately, there are a couple of ways to tell the difference between these two spider types.

• Phoneutria has patches of dense, fine hairs on its pedipalps, which are the two appendages beside the chelicerae mouthparts. If you don’t want to get that close to the spider, then take a look at the forelegs.
• Phoneutria forelegs often have a dark stripe on the front side and contrasting black and yellow/white bands on the underside.

Banana Spider Questions and Answers

What is a banana spider.

Well, it might sound like it’s a spider that either eats bananas or looks like a banana, but a banana spider is actually the common name for various spiders found around the world.

Some are called such either because they feature yellow bodies or because they’re found living on banana plants and in shipments of imported bananas.

How many types of banana spiders are there?

There are at least five types of banana spiders which are discussed in this post.

They include:

• Hunting spider ( Cupiennius )
• Golden silk orb-weaver ( Nephila )
• Hawaiian garden spider ( Argiope appensa )
• Golden silk-orb weaver ( Trichonephila clavipes )
• Brazilian wandering spider ( Phoneutria )

There is also a goblin spider native to China that’s listed in the Bannana genus.

Are banana spiders venomous?

The banana spiders in this post all contain venom, but most of them are not harmful to humans except for redness and a stinging feeling at the bite location.

The only banana spider you should be concerned about is the Brazilian wandering spider ( Phoneutria ) which can be harmful and possibly fatal to humans. If you’re ever bitten by a Brazilian wandering spider, you should seek medical help immediately.

How deadly is a banana spider?

Only the Brazilian wandering spider is considered deadly, and that’s not all the time. Unfortunately, two children died from bites by the same spider in São Sebastião, Brazil. But some workers on banana plantations have reported only mild reactions after being bitten.

Experts believe this is because these spiders don’t always release their full venom at once but sometimes produce “dry bites.”

Where do banana spiders live?

Different banana spiders live in different places around the world. The ones that are found in banana plants live in Central and South America.

Some known as golden silk orb-weavers live in warm regions like Asia, Africa, Australia, and the Americas while others live in the islands of the Pacific Ocean.

Are banana spiders aggressive?

Banana spiders may look frightening, but they’re usually shy and won’t bother you as long as you don’t bother them. If they feel threatened, they may bite out of defense.

Common banana spider myth (debunked)

Have you ever heard that monkeys peel bananas from the end opposite to the stem because they know that banana spiders live in the banana tips? It’s a common myth that banana spiders lay their eggs in banana plant blossoms, and baby spiders can end up in your breakfast.

So, before you swear off eating bananas, rest assured that this myth is false. Banana spiders lay their eggs in the leaves of banana plants and not the banana blossoms which grow and change too quickly for a mother banana spider’s peace of mind.

Learn more about bananas in our Weird & Tasty Guide to 28 Banana Facts

You might also enjoy: 22 Rhinoceros Beetle Facts

We hope that these banana spider facts have helped you learn more about what banana spiders are and why they’re called such. Before this post, were you familiar with banana spiders? Did any of these facts surprise you? Let us know in the comments!

Hi, I'm Bryan Haines . And I'm a co-founder of Storyteller.Travel . I'm a traveler and photographer.

I also blog about photography on Storyteller Tech .

Similar Posts

Nova Scotia Beaches: Guide to 41 Best Beaches in Nova Scotia

Looking for the best beaches in Nova Scotia? Here’s the complete guide to Nova Scotia beaches – including the longest, warmest and best surfing beaches. Despite its northern location, Nova Scotia is known for having some of the warmest waters north of the Carolinas. And with 7500 km of coastline, there are a lot of…

41 Nova Scotia Lighthouses to Visit This Summer

Nova Scotia lighthouses are famous around the world. In this article, you’ll learn about 41 lighthouses to visit this summer. Many families make it a tradition to visit their favourite lighthouse at least once a year. And when company comes, that lighthouse is a must-see. Lighthouses are unique buildings that are full of history. And they…

Do Sharks Have Bones? Guide to Chondrichthyan Shark Cartilage

Sharks are known for their dorsal fin and teeth. But what about bones? Do sharks have bones? And how many? In this post, you’ll learn about shark skeletons, teeth, and cartilage. While they can fossilize, sharks do not have bones. Like all fish made of cartilaginous tissues (elasmobranchs), shark skeletons are made up completely of…

Do Squirrels Eat Meat? Omnivore, Carnivore, Predator

Are squirrels vegetarian, omnivores, or carnivores? Sure, squirrels eat seeds and nuts. But do squirrels eat meat? Learn their eating habits: foods they’ll eat and what they avoid. Squirrels are omnivores, which means that their diet consists of both plants and meat. Squirrels primarily eat vegetarian foods. But they will also eat bird eggs, insects,…

What’s the Largest Lake in Africa? 9 Largest Lakes Compared

Africa is home to many huge lakes. What’s the largest lake in Africa? And where are the best places to visit? In this post, you’ll learn about the 9 largest lakes in Africa. Plus lots of photos and details. Africa has so much to offer a western traveler including world-renowned lakes. Second only to the…

Uganda Animals: 27 Amazing Safari Animals of Uganda

Looking for Uganda animals? In this post, you’ll learn about 27 amazing animals that you can see while trekking and on safari in Uganda. They include mammals, birds, reptiles, and fish. 27 African Safari Animals in Uganda Uganda is a landlocked country in eastern Africa. Along with Tanzania and Kenya, it is home to Lake…

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

UK Edition Change

• UK Politics
• News Videos
• Paris 2024 Olympics
• Rugby Union
• Sport Videos
• John Rentoul
• Mary Dejevsky
• Andrew Grice
• Sean O’Grady
• Photography
• Theatre & Dance
• Culture Videos
• Fitness & Wellbeing
• Food & Drink
• Health & Families
• Royal Family
• Electric Vehicles
• Car Insurance Deals
• Lifestyle Videos
• UK Hotel Reviews
• News & Advice
• Simon Calder
• Australia & New Zealand
• South America
• C. America & Caribbean
• Middle East
• Politics Explained
• News Analysis
• Today’s Edition
• Home & Garden
• Broadband deals
• Fashion & Beauty
• Travel & Outdoors
• Sports & Fitness
• Sustainable Living
• Climate Videos
• Solar Panels
• Behind The Headlines
• On The Ground
• Decomplicated
• You Ask The Questions
• Binge Watch
• Travel Smart
• Watch on your TV
• Crosswords & Puzzles
• Most Commented
• Newsletters
• Ask Me Anything
• Virtual Events
• Betting Sites
• Online Casinos
• Wine Offers

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged in Please refresh your browser to be logged in

Brazilian wandering spider: How deadly are the spiders allegedly found on Asda bananas?

Article bookmarked.

Find your bookmarks in your Independent Premium section, under my profile

Get the free Morning Headlines email for news from our reporters across the world

Sign up to our free morning headlines email, thanks for signing up to the morning headlines email.

Finding a nest of spiders in a bunch of bananas is terrifying at the best of times, but when there’s a risk that they could be a nest of deadly Brazilian wandering spiders set loose in your house, terror levels can go off the charts.

That’s what Ashley Gamble and his partner Sophia Newcombe discovered when a bunch of bananas delivered as part of their local Asda shop was found to be harbouring a small nest of spiders, which began “falling out of it onto the floor”.

He told The Sun he and his family have left the house and will not return until it has been fumigated.

• Read more Family discover of nest of deadly spiders in Aldi bananas

It has been reported that the spiders are Brazilian wandering spiders, a deadly breed that can kill people in a matter of hours, though these spiders are known to nest on the ground and not in trees. The types of spiders known to nest in bananas are understood to be harmless to humans.

However, a Brazilian wandering spider carrying a sac of thousands of eggs was found under a bunch of bananas after a Waitrose shop in South London in 2014. The spider and its eggs were killed.

An Asda spokesperson said these incidents are “extremely rare” and that its bananas are “washed and sprayed before they are transported to the UK and every single piece of fruit is manually checked for quality and stowaways”.

“We sell one billion bananas every year and the chance of finding a spider is incredibly low, but very occasionally one hangs around to give us a fright. We are sorry for any upset this has caused and remain in touch with Mr Gamble while we investigate further.”

Where do Brazilian wandering spiders come from?

Fortunately, it is very rare to find Brazilian wandering spiders in the UK or anywhere outside their natural habitat in South America.

They live in the forests of Costa Rica, Columbia, Peru, Brazil, and Paraguay and gain their name from the habit of moving across jungle floors at night in search of food.

In the day, they like hiding in places that are dark and moist and are known to favour piles of wood, garages, cupboards, shoes and even heaps of clothes.

The apparent tendency to hide in banana bunches – like in the latest incident – has given them the nickname “banana spider”.

Their scientific name translates as “murderess” in Greek and they are also known as the “armed spider”, because of their unusual attacking stance, and “horse stinger”.

How deadly is this breed?

The Guinness Book of World Records has named it the most venomous spider in the world for possessing the most active neurotoxic venom of any living spider.

The toxin PhTx3 causes extreme pain, swelling, paralysis, skin cell destruction, fatal breathing complications, heart attacks and painful erections (priapism) in men lasting up to four-hours.

• 'Die Hard' spider that causes painful erections and death 'found in Asda bananas'
• Black widow spider nest discovered in bunch of grapes bought at Asda supermarket
• The most terrifying spider in the world builds a fake spider decoy to trick its victims

Victims of a Brazilian wandering spider bite can reportedly be killed in an hour.

But few deaths occur because an effective anti-venom is available in Brazil and Guinness claims that people are killed, it is usually in children under the age of seven.

Scientists have reportedly considered investigating the use of the deadly venom as a possible ingredient for drugs treating erectile dysfunction.

What do Brazilian wandering spiders look like?

There are eight known species, with the most dangerous being the Phoneutria fera and the Phoneutria nigriventer.

All vary slightly in appearance but are known for their size, with a leg span of up to 15 cm (6 ins) and body length of up to 5 cm (2 ins).

They are covered with hair and usually dark brown in colour, with some displaying bright red hairs on their venom glands.

When Brazilian wandering spiders feel threatened, they adopt a distinctive “attacking” stance with their front legs in the air, swaying from side to side.

How do they attack?

The spiders use bites as their main form of attack but do not always deliver venom, using it only in an estimated third of bites.

They eat insects and small mammals, including other spiders, amphibians, reptiles and mice, hunting them on the ground and killing with an ambush or direct attack.

Join our commenting forum

Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies

Subscribe to Independent Premium to bookmark this article

Want to bookmark your favourite articles and stories to read or reference later? Start your Independent Premium subscription today.

New to The Independent?

Or if you would prefer:

Want an ad-free experience?

Hi {{indy.fullName}}

• My Independent Premium
• Account details
• Help centre

• Updated Terms of Use
• New Privacy Policy
• Your Privacy Choices
• Closed Caption Policy
• Accessibility Statement

This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. ©2024 FOX News Network, LLC. All rights reserved. Quotes displayed in real-time or delayed by at least 15 minutes. Market data provided by Factset . Powered and implemented by FactSet Digital Solutions . Legal Statement . Mutual Fund and ETF data provided by Refinitiv Lipper .

Deadly Brazilian wandering spiders found in bananas sold at Tesco grocery store, family claims

Fox News Flash top headlines for May 5

Fox News Flash top headlines are here. Check out what's clicking on Foxnews.com.

Get all the latest news on coronavirus and more delivered daily to your inbox.  Sign up here.

An apple a day keeps the doctor away. A banana full of deadly spiders won’t work out as well.

A woman says she found an egg sac full of deadly spiders on some bananas she had recently purchased from a grocery store. While no one was hurt in the incident, her home reportedly needs to be sealed and fumigated for two weeks to make sure none of the deadly arachnids are still lingering around.

The spiders were reportedly identified as Brazilian wandering spiders. (iStock)

Melanie Price says she saw 20 spiders swarming from an egg sac on a bunch of bananas she had just purchased from a Tesco in Wadebridge, England, The Sun reports. When the mom noticed the spiders, she reportedly grabbed her husband, 3-year-old son and 11-month-old daughter and ran outside.

CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR LIFESTYLE NEWSLETTER

The spiders were reportedly identified as Brazilian wandering spiders, one of the most venomous in the world, according to Live Science . If left untreated, a bite from one of these spiders can be deadly, especially to children.

Pest controllers have sealed off the family’s home for two weeks to make sure none of the spiders are still living in the area, The Sun reports.

“They take two hours to kill a human. It was terrifying,” Price told The Sun. “We had to make sure the kids were safe, that comes above anything. It was a hard 48 hours, I can assure you.”

FOLLOW US ON FACEBOOK FOR MORE FOX LIFESTYLE NEWS In a statement obtained by The Sun, a spokesperson for Tesco said, “We have strict controls to ensure all our bananas are washed and inspected prior to packing. However, on extremely rare occasions, pests can avoid detection.”

Fun stories about food, relationships, the great outdoors and more.

You've successfully subscribed to this newsletter!

Tesco shopper 'finds world's most venomous spider cocooned on bunch of bananas'

Tesco shopper Adam Shepherd claims he discovered a cocoon with a "spider's leg coming out” at the supermarket's Lottbridge branch in Eastbourne, East Sussex

• 01:56, 24 Nov 2021
• Updated 20:05, 26 Nov 2021

One of the most lethal spiders on the planet was hanging out in a UK supermarket fruit aisle, a shopper claims.

The Brazilian wandering spider is one of only a few species of spider known to represent a serious threat to humans.

The potentially deadly arachnid is found in tropical regions of South America and was allegedly been spotted at a Tesco in Eastbourne, East Sussex, reports Daily Star .

Customer Adam Shepherd claims he discovered a cocoon with a "spider's leg coming out” stuck to a bunch of bananas at the supermarket’s Lottbridge branch.

Adam took a photo of what appears to be the deadly stowaway before, he said, he handed the contaminated bunch of bananas to staff for disposal.

Adam then shared the photo to Facebook , where users identified it as a Brazilian wandering spider, or banana spider.

While many commenters were petrified by the idea of a venomous spider in the fruit and veg department, Adam was pretty laid back about it.

"I wasn't really that shocked as I used to work produce for Tesco and I've seen it quite a few times,” he told the Brighton Argus.

"No idea what kind it was but it was definitely a brown colour

"You can just about see its leg coming out."

A banana spider bite can cause high blood pressure , sweating, and in men, an uncontrollable and painful erection.

In 2005, a Somerset chef was bitten by one which had stowed away in a crate of bananas and found its way to the Quantock Gateway pub in Bridgwater.

Matthew Stevens told The Times: "It was hiding in a cloth and when I squeezed the cloth it bit me. It was about as big as the palm of my hand.

“I went to try and pick it up and it bit me again. It landed in the freezer, which stunned it."

But while the spider was out for the count, it had left Matthew in quite a state: "I thought I wasn’t going to make it. My chest was so tight I could hardly breathe. My blood pressure was going through the roof and my heart was beating so hard I could feel it hitting my chest.

“The doctors didn’t know what type of spider it was, but I’d got a picture of it on my phone and they sent it to Bristol Zoo to identify it.”

Matthew pulled through, and was sent home the following day. Defra inspectors later found the spider “in a state of suspended animation" in the pub’s fridge.

In response a Tesco spokesperson said: “We have robust processes in places to prevent insects travelling with our fruit and vegetables.

“On very rare occasions they can sometimes sneak through our suppliers’ checks, and when this happens we’re always happy to provide the customer with a full refund or replacement item.”

MORE ON Tesco

Get email updates with the day's biggest stories.

Animals Around The Globe (US)

Brazilian Wandering Spider Bite

Posted: May 10, 2024 | Last updated: May 10, 2024

Are you aware that the Brazilian wandering spider is among the most venomous spiders globally? In this article, we will go into further detail about the Brazilian Wandering Spider Bite.

This innocuous-looking arachnid has a bite that can cause intense pain and other serious symptoms, such as paralysis, difficulty breathing, and even death. 

Despite its reputation, however, with prompt medical treatment, most bites from this species are rarely life-threatening. 

Let’s explore what causes a Brazilian wandering spider bite and how you can treat one if unfortunate enough to experience it.

Want to jump ahead? Click below

Image via Shutterstock

What Is A Brazilian Wandering Spider, And Why Is It Dangerous

In the event of encountering a Brazilian Wandering Spider in its natural habitat or within your residence, it is advisable to seek assistance from a trained expert at the earliest convenience.

In addition the toxin can cause long-lasting painful erections if not treated promptly, which makes it especially dangerous to male victims. The spider’s venom is incredibly powerful, and even one bite can be fatal to a human within a few hours. 

Due to its potent venom the Brazilian Wandering Spider, also called the Armed Spider or Banana Spider , is widely acknowledged as one of the world’s most dangerous spiders. This spider can be found in several South American countries and is known for wandering into areas inhabited by humans. It can climb walls and hide in clothes, shoes and beds. 

Symptoms Of A Brazilian Wandering Spider Bite

Prompt medical attention is crucial and should be sought without delay if you suspect a Brazilian Wandering Spider has bitten you – the venom can be deadly. Treatment may include antivenom, pain medication and oxygen therapy.

In addition to neurological symptoms, the venom of a Brazilian Wandering Spider can affect the heart and cardiovascular system. Victims may experience an irregular heartbeat, high blood pressure, and chest pain.

• Cardiovascular Symptoms

Victims may experience abdominal pain and cramping.

Brazilian Wandering Spider bites can cause nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.

• Gastrointestinal Symptoms

If left untreated, priapism can cause irreversible damage to the penis and may persist for several hours. Female victims may experience swelling and inflammation in the genital area.

The venom of a Brazilian Wandering Spider can cause priapism, a prolonged and painful erection in males.

• Sexual Dysfunction

In critical situations, the venom can induce paralysis, which may result in respiratory failure and fatality.

A Brazilian Wandering Spider’s venom comprises a neurotoxin capable of influencing the nervous system and brain. Victims may experience muscle weakness, tremors, convulsions and difficulty speaking or breathing.

• Neurological Symptoms

Brazilian Wandering Spider bites can cause pain and a burning or stinging sensation where they are located. There may be redness and swelling along with the pain that travels to other areas of the body.

• Pain At The Bite Site

Below are some common symptoms of a Brazilian Wandering Spider bite:

The size of the spider, the quantity of venom injected, the victim’s age and health and other variables can all affect how severe the symptoms of the Brazilian Wandering Spider’s venom are.

Prompt Remedies For A Bite By A Brazilian Wandering Spider

Check out The world’s most dangerous spiders .

Follow the immediate treatment recommendations listed above to help mitigate the effects of venom, but always seek medical care as soon as possible.

The Brazilian Wandering Spider’s venom is lethal, and the best course of action if you encounter this spider is to leave it alone and seek professional help immediately. 

The sole effective treatment for this type of spider bite is antivenom therapy. Seek medical assistance immediately if you experience dizziness, shortness of breath, difficulty swallowing, or muscle paralysis.

Promptly seeking medical attention is critical. A neurotoxin present in the venom of the Brazilian Wandering Spider can cause muscle paralysis, which may result in respiratory failure and fatality after being bitten by a wandering Brazilian spider. 

Without Any Delay, Obtain Medical Attention  

Avoid applying suction to the bite wound, as this can worsen the venom’s spread within your body.

As soon as possible, thoroughly clean the bite wound with sterile saline or clean water. It will lessen the chance of infection and aid in clearing the wound of any remaining venom.

Clean The Bite Wound Immediately

Elevating the affected area above the level of your heart can help slow down the spread of venom in your bloodstream. Generally administering a cold compress to the site of the bite can also aid in relieving pain and diminishing inflammation.

Elevate The Affected Area & Apply Cold Compress

Keeping calm and avoiding panicking if a Brazilian Wandering Spider has bitten you is vital. Panicking can cause an increased heart rate, which can then spread toxins throughout your body at a faster pace.

Before seeking medical assistance, there are some measures you can take to alleviate the venom’s impact.

The Brazilian Wandering Spider is one of the deadliest spiders in the world and its venom can cause severe muscle paralysis and respiratory failure – ultimately leading to death. Endiently, it is vital to promptly seek medical assistance if a Brazilian Wandering Spider has bitten you. 

Long-Term Effects Of A Brazilian Wandering Spider Bite

Due to these potentially life-threatening long-term effects, it is crucial to seek immediate medical attention if you suspect a wandering spider has bitten you.

However the venom can also affect the respiratory and cardiovascular systems, leading to difficulty breathing, high blood pressure and even heart failure. In rare cases neurological disorders such as paralysis may also occur. 

The Brazilian Wandering Spider, also recognized as the Banana Spider, is among the most venomous spiders globally. The gravity of the envenomation can have considerable, long-lasting implications on an individual’s health. Typical indications of a wandering spider bite include intense pain, swelling, sweating, and muscle spasms. 

Prevention Tips To Avoid Encountering A Brazilian Wandering Spider

Following these simple tips can greatly reduce the risk of encountering a Brazilian Wandering Spider and protect yourself from its harmful bite.

Generally it’s important to regularly clean and dust your home, as clutter can attract these spiders. Lastly, shake any clothes or shoes before wearing them, especially if left on the ground. 

To avoid encountering this dangerous spider be cautious when unpacking boxes or clothes that have been stored for a long time, as these are common hiding spots for spiders. 

One of the deadliest spiders in the world is the Brazilian Wandering Spider , commonly referred to as the banana spider. Usually found in South and Central America, these spiders are infamous for their deadly bites. Evidently it is imperative to implement proactive strategies.

Pest Control Solutions In The Event Of An Infestation

Check out Brazilian Wandering Spider Control: How To Get Rid of Brazilian Wandering Spiders .

Professionals with experience in pest control can identify the source of the infestation and treat you and your family with safe and efficient methods. It is imperative that you handle this risk with caution. Generally leave the work to the professionals to protect you and your loved ones.

These spiders are found in Central and South America and can cause serious harm if they bite. If you suspect an infestation it is essential to seek professional pest control solutions immediately. 

Dealing with a pest infestation is no easy task, especially when it comes to a spider known for its deadly venom – the Brazilian wandering spider. 

More for You

Country star Zach Bryan and girlfriend survive 'traumatizing' car crash: 'We were, like, saying goodbye'

49 Favorite Recipes from Our Test Kitchen

These 22 Cars Are the Most Expensive to Maintain

Bishop Threatens to Sue Catholic Magazine Over Trump Claim

7 Ways People Destroy the Value of Their Homes, According to a Real Estate Agent

Five Teams That Got Screwed by the 2024 NFL Schedule

7 Sneaky Signs Of Resentment In Relationships

What’s the Best Cheese For Grilled Cheese? Here Are Our 6 Favorites

Claim of 400,000 Boy Scouts quitting after name change announcement began as satire | Fact check

Silver posts highest close in 11 years, gold at 3-week high as CPI data show slowdown in inflation

Gov. Kristi Noem banned from seventh Native American reservation in South Dakota

10 Classic Muscle Cars That Are More Affordable Than Most People Realize

An 8,000-year-old fort defies expectations, showing that Stone Age societies built protective structures far earlier than we thought

The Best Chocolate Cake Recipe Was Hiding on the Back of the Box

Head of Britain's Intelligence service warns of Russia's plans for physical attacks on West

Ex-IBM CEO: Here's the No. 1 thing my mom did to raise four highly successful executives

Iconic Mirage casino, which ushered in an era of Las Vegas Strip megaresorts in the ‘90s, is closing

76 Cheap Dinner Ideas That Don't Skimp on Taste

10 Best Sports Cars Of The 2000s

'Huge problem': Vulnerable Dem senator ripped after interview resurfaces touting similarity with Biden