Spiders in French Polynesia

French Polynesia might not be a familiar name to many people, but this quaint paradise has a lot to offer. The striking scenery seems endless, and the view alone is too entertaining, especially for the lover of nature. It has plenty of water activities and fun-filled nature activities such as hiking and cliff jumping. However, you should be wary as there are some creepy crawlers. Although most of them are not harmful to humans, their bite can be painful and would cause mild inflammation.

Spiders in French Polynesia Identification Chart

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Common Spiders in French Polynesia

Biggest Spiders in French Polynesia

Most Venomous Spiders

Less Venomous Spiders

Common Spiders in French Polynesia

Nukuhiva adamsoni

Double spotted spiny spider (Thelacantha brevispina)

Common House Spider (Parasteatoda tepidariorum)

Biggest Spiders in French Polynesia

Pantropical Huntsman Spider (Heteropoda venatoria)

Giant Huntsman Spider (Heteropoda maxima)

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Most Venomous Spiders

Cobweb Spiders/Tangle Web Spiders (Theridiidae)

Brown Widow (Latrodectus geometricus) - The Brown Widow Spider is a cool spider that belongs to the cobweb spiders family. Some people know more about its cousin, the Black Widow, but the Brown Widow has its own interesting story.… Continue Reading >

Widow (Latrodectus) - Meet the Latrodectus spiders, often known as true widows! They're part of the cobweb spider family. By July 2017, there were 31 types of them, living everywhere except Antarctica.… Continue Reading >

Red Widow (Latrodectus bishopi) - Have you ever seen a bright red spider? There's one called the Red Widow Spider, and it's part of the 'widow spider' family. This special spider lives in just a few places in the United States.… Continue Reading >

Less Venomous Spiders

Huntsman Spiders (Sparassidae Family)

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!… Continue Reading >

Tarantulas

Cobalt Blue Tarantula (Cyriopagopus lividus) - Ever heard of the cobalt blue tarantula? This bright-colored spider is part of the Theraphosidae family. Some people even have them as pets! In nature, they stay safe in their dens and only come out when they're hungry.… Continue Reading >

Cellar Spiders

Long Bodied Cellar (Pholcus phalangioides) - The long-bodied cellar spiders are quite interesting! Often seen in America's dark and damp spots, they have really long legs. This is why some folks call them daddy-long-legs.… Continue Reading >

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there dangerous spiders in French Polynesia?

Yes, venomous spiders like the Cobweb spider family (Theridiidae) exist in French Polynesia, but most species are not considered dangerously harmful to humans. A bite from a local spider is more likely to cause temporary pain and mild, localized inflammation rather than a severe medical emergency for most people.

What is the biggest spider in French Polynesia?

The biggest spiders found in French Polynesia are from the Huntsman family, specifically the Pantropical Huntsman (Heteropoda venatoria) and the Giant Huntsman (Heteropoda maxima). These spiders are notable for their impressive size and leg span but are generally considered to have low-toxicity venom compared to other species.

What happens if a spider bites you in French Polynesia?

A spider bite in French Polynesia typically results in minor, localized symptoms. While the bite may be painful, it usually causes only mild swelling or inflammation around the area. Although most bites are not medically significant, it is always best to consult a medical professional for proper diagnosis and care.

What are the most common spiders found in French Polynesia?

The most frequently encountered spiders in French Polynesia include the Common House Spider (Parasteatoda tepidariorum), the Double Spotted Spiny Spider (Thelacantha brevispina), and Nukuhiva adamsoni. These species are widespread and can be found in various environments, from human dwellings to more natural, wilder habitats across the islands.

Are huntsman spiders in French Polynesia venomous?

Yes, huntsman spiders in French Polynesia are venomous, but they are not considered highly dangerous to humans. Their venom is of low toxicity, and a bite, while potentially painful due to their size, typically results in only minor, localized swelling. They are generally more likely to flee than to bite.

Can you find tarantulas in French Polynesia?

Yes, tarantulas can be found in French Polynesia. Like the huntsman spiders also present in the region, these tarantulas are generally classified as less venomous. A bite from one can be painful primarily due to the size of their fangs but is not typically considered medically significant for humans.

Which spider family in French Polynesia is considered most venomous?

The spider family considered most venomous in French Polynesia is Theridiidae, commonly known as cobweb or tangle-web spiders. While their venom is more potent than that of other local spiders like the huntsman, a bite is still unlikely to cause a severe medical issue for a healthy adult.

Spiders in French Polynesia

Common Spiders in French Polynesia

Biggest Spiders in French Polynesia

Most Venomous Spiders

Cobweb Spiders/Tangle Web Spiders (Theridiidae)