Huntsmen Spiders
Sparassidae
Classification
- Phylum: Arthropoda
- Subphylum: Chelicerata
- Class: Arachnida
- Order: Araneae
- Infraorder: Araneomorphae
- Family: Sparassidae
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Sparassidae: //spəˈræsɪdiː//
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Images
Summary
The family Sparassidae, commonly known as huntsman spiders or giant crab spiders, includes a diverse range of species primarily found in warm temperate and tropical regions. They are characterized by their large size, long legs, and speed. Able to detect movement from a distance, they are effective predators of various invertebrates and play an essential role in their ecosystems.
Physical Characteristics
Huntsman spiders are eight-eyed spiders with two rows of four forward-facing eyes. They can grow quite large, with some species having leg spans reaching up to 25-30 cm (9.8-11.8 in). Their bodies are typically brown or grey, with many species exhibiting aposematic black-and-white markings on their undersides. They possess long, laterigrade legs that extend forward in a crab-like manner, and skin covered in soft hair and spines.
Identification Tips
They can be distinguished from other spider families by their size and leg structure. Huntsman spiders are less bulky than tarantulas and have legs that extend laterally like those of crabs. They possess two claws for hunting and eight eyes arranged in two rows, which is characteristic of the family Sparassidae.
Habitat
Huntsman spiders prefer woody habitats such as forests, mine shafts, and woodpiles. They often hide under rocks, tree bark, and other shelters. They are commonly encountered in human structures like sheds and garages.
Distribution
Sparassidae are found in warm temperate to tropical regions of the world, including Australia, Africa, Asia, the Mediterranean Basin, and the Americas. Some species have been introduced to other areas, including parts of the southern U.S. and New Zealand.
Diet
Huntsman spiders primarily feed on insects and other invertebrates, but they may also consume small skinks and geckos. They are active hunters and do not construct webs.
Life Cycle
Females exhibit aggressive protective behavior towards their egg sacs and young, often carrying the egg sacs or attaching them to vegetation, depending on the species.
Reproduction
Mating rituals involve males producing substrate-borne sounds to attract females, which leads to courtship and mating.
Ecosystem Role
As ambush predators, huntsman spiders play a significant role in controlling insect populations in their habitats.
Cultural Significance
Huntsman spiders are often confused with other spider types, leading to various cultural myths and misconceptions about their behavior and potential danger to humans.
Health Concerns
While sparassid bites can cause localized pain and swelling, they are generally less harmful than the bites of other spiders, such as the brown recluse. Serious bites requiring medical treatment are rare and often subject to complications.
Misconceptions
Huntsman spiders are frequently mistaken for tarantulas due to their size and hairy appearance, leading to exaggerated fears about their danger. They are also confused with brown recluse spiders, despite their significantly different venom effects.
Tags
- Sparassidae
- Huntsman Spiders
- Giant Crab Spiders
- Arachnology
- Insect Predators