Spiders in Tasmania

Tasmania has its fair share of spiders, the most dangerous being the redback and Lake Fenton trapdoor spiders, whose bites are quite deadly. While certain species of spiders like the mouse spiders are almost wholly absent here, there are several species endemic to this state. These include the Tasmanian cave spider, Plomley’s trapdoor spider, and the Tasmanian red and black spider.

Recently, a young boy named Murphy Widdowson discovered a new species of wolf spider. The spider’s scientific name, Artoriopsis murphyi, was coined in his honor.

Spiders in Tasmania Identification Chart

Table Of Content hide

Common Spiders in Tasmania

Biggest Spider in Tasmania

Most Dangerous Spiders in Tasmania

Most Venomous Spiders

Less Venomous Spiders

Common Spiders in Tasmania

Black House Spider

Garden Wolf Spider

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Biggest Spider in Tasmania

Tasmanian Cave Spider

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Most Dangerous Spiders in Tasmania

Redback Spider

Lake Fenton Trapdoor Spider

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Most Venomous Spiders

Comb-Footed Spiders

Redback Spider (Latrodectus hasseltii) - The Redback spider, often called the Australian black widow, comes from places in Australia. Nowadays, you can find it all over Australia and even in New Zealand.… Continue Reading >

Huntsman Spiders

Avondale (Delena cancerides) - The Avondale spider comes from the huntsman spider family. It got its name from a place called Avondale in Auckland. Some people also call it the social huntsman or flat huntsman spider.… Continue Reading >

Australian Funnel-web Spiders

Lake Fenton Trapdoor Spider (Plesiothele fentoni)

Wolf Spiders

Garden Wolf Spider (Tasmanicosa godeffroyi)
Grey Wolf Spider (Portacosa cinerea)

White‐Tailed Spiders

White-tailed (Lampona cylindrata & Lampona murina) - Discover the intriguing world of the white-tailed spider, known scientifically as Lampona murina and Lampona cylindrata. Both these spiders hail from the Lampona genus, which means ‘to shine’.… Continue Reading >

House Spiders

Black House (Badumna insignis) - The Black House Spider, sometimes called the common black spider, calls Australia home. But, you can also spot them in Japan and New Zealand. They have a dark, strong look but are quite shy.… Continue Reading >

Less Venomous Spiders

Huntsman Spiders

Badge Huntsman Spider (Neosparassus diana)

Red and Black Spiders

Tasmanian Red and Black Spider (Novodamus nodatus)

Large Clawed Spiders

Tasmanian Cave Spider (Hickmania troglodytes)

Tree Trapdoor Spiders

Plomley’s Trapdoor Spider (Migas plomleyi)

Jumping Spiders

Maratus proszynskii

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most dangerous spiders in Tasmania?

The most dangerous spiders in Tasmania are the redback spider and the Lake Fenton trapdoor spider. Both species possess medically significant venom, and their bites are considered potentially deadly. Immediate medical attention is crucial following a suspected bite from either of these spiders to ensure proper and timely treatment.

Which spiders are endemic to Tasmania?

Yes, several spider species are endemic to the state, meaning they are found nowhere else. These unique spiders include the large Tasmanian cave spider, Plomley’s trapdoor spider, and the Tasmanian red and black spider. The recently discovered wolf spider, Artoriopsis murphyi, is also a notable local species.

What is the biggest spider found in Tasmania?

The biggest spider found in Tasmania is the Tasmanian cave spider (*Hickmania troglodytes*). This large, primitive spider is found exclusively in the state’s cave systems and other dark, humid environments. Its significant leg span makes it the most physically imposing arachnid native to the island state.

Are funnel-web spiders common in Tasmania?

Yes, a type of funnel-web spider is native to Tasmania. The Lake Fenton trapdoor spider (*Plesiothele fentoni*) is a dangerous funnel-web species found in the region. Its bite is considered highly venomous and potentially deadly, making it one of the most medically significant spiders on the island.

Are mouse spiders found in Tasmania?

No, mouse spiders are almost wholly absent from Tasmania. While these spiders are found on mainland Australia, they are not considered part of Tasmania’s native arachnid population. This absence is a distinct characteristic of the island’s unique fauna when compared to the rest of the country.

What common spiders are found in Tasmanian homes?

The black house spider is one of the most common spiders found in and around Tasmanian homes. This species often builds its distinctive lacy webs in window corners, under eaves, and in other sheltered crevices. While its bite can be painful, it is not typically considered dangerously venomous.

How venomous are huntsman spiders in Tasmania?

Huntsman spiders in Tasmania are considered less venomous compared to species like the redback. While a bite from a huntsman can be painful and cause localized swelling due to their large fangs, their venom is not dangerously toxic to humans. They are generally reluctant to bite unless provoked.

Spiders in Tasmania

Common Spiders in Tasmania

Biggest Spider in Tasmania

Most Dangerous Spiders in Tasmania