Giant Huntsman (Heteropoda maxima)

The Giant Huntsman spider has a big claim to fame: it has the longest legs among all spiders! Found in the Laos region, this spider is also super speedy. It chases its prey really fast! In this post, we’ll share cool facts about this spider.

Scientific Classification

• Family: Sparassidae
• Genus: Heteropoda
• Scientific name: Heteropoda maxima

Physical Description & Identification

Adults

• Size: They are huge in size, being the largest of the spiders belonging to the Sparassidae family. Their body length is about 4.6 cm (1.8 inches), while their legs pan is 30 cm (12 inches) long. The females are characteristically larger than their male counterparts.
• Color: They have a yellowish-brown body, with dark spots distributed in an irregular fashion all over. Their legs are mostly banded with markings of brown or gray.
• Other characteristics: Their legs are longer than their body twisting forward similar to that of a crab. The males and females are also different from one another when it comes to genital features as the cymbium of the latter is thrice longer than its tegulum.

Eggs

The eggs remain enclosed in an oval sac and about 200 of them may be laid.

Spiderlings

The juvenile spiders have a pale body that gets darker with every molt.

Are Giant Huntsman Spiders Venomous?

Yes, Giant Huntsman spiders do have venom. But don’t worry, their venom isn’t seen as dangerous to humans. They use it mostly to catch their food.

Can Giant Huntsman Spiders Bite?

Giant Huntsman spiders can bite if they’re scared. Their bite might feel a bit like a bee sting, causing some redness and itchiness.

Ecological Importance and Behavior of Giant Huntsman Spider

The Giant Huntsman Spider plays a vital role in maintaining ecological balance within its habitat. Its voracious appetite for insects and other invertebrates helps to keep these populations in check, contributing to a healthier ecosystem. Their nocturnal nature and incredible speed make them formidable predators in their domain.

Natural Predator: Birds, geckos, flies, and wasps are known to prey on the Giant Huntsman Spider, showcasing the intricate food web and predator-prey dynamics within their ecosystem.

Prey-Predator Dynamics: The relationship between the Giant Huntsman Spider and its prey is a fascinating display of agility and precision. Their ability to chase down and capture their prey underscores their importance as predators, playing a crucial role in regulating insect populations.

Relationship with Humans: While encounters with humans are relatively rare, it is essential for us to understand and appreciate the ecological significance of the Giant Huntsman Spider. Educating the public about these spiders, their role in the ecosystem, and their generally non-threatening nature to humans can foster a sense of respect and protect these remarkable creatures.

Quick Facts

Did You Know

• P. Jager described it for the first time after the discovery of the species in one of Laos’ caves.
• Prior to the discovery of this species, Beregama aurea of Australia was the largest member of the Sparassidae family.
• The Goliath Birdeater is the largest in terms of size and mass but is after the giant huntsman when it comes to leg span. 

In conclusion, the Giant Huntsman Spider, with its impressive size, speed, and ecological importance, stands as a testament to the incredible diversity of the arachnid world.