Spiders in Ghana

If you want to experience a wildlife safari holiday, then you definitely need to visit Ghana. It is a home to a large number of wildlife consisting of reptiles, mammals, marine species, and insects. Yes, it has fair share of creepy crawlers including some of the notorious spider species like the black widow and brown widow. You can literally see it all in Ghana. If you are a lover of wildlife, then you will surely enjoy your journey in this paradise on earth. More information about this nature-rich paradise, specifically information about spider species can be found below.

Spiders in Ghana Identification Chart

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Common Spiders in Ghana

Biggest Spiders in Ghana

Most Venomous Spiders

Less Venomous Spiders

Common Spiders in Ghana

Bum-eyed Spider (Bijoaraneus legonensis)

Tropical Tent-web Spider (Cyrtophora citricola)

Darwin’s Bark (Caerostris darwini)

Biggest Spiders in Ghana

Ornamental baboon spiders/Togo Starburst spiders (Heteroscodra maculate)

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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 >

Tarantulas

King Baboon Tarantula (Pelinobius muticus) - The King baboon tarantula is a unique spider from East Africa. It's the only one in the Pelinobius family! Many people who love spiders like to have them in their collections.… Continue Reading >

Less Venomous Spiders

Orb Weavers

Orange Ladybeetle Spider – Paraplectana walleri

Jumping Spiders

Gray Wall Jumping (Menemerus bivittatus) - Did you know there's a spider called the Gray wall jumper? It belongs to the Salticidae family and is found in warm tropical places in both the north and south.… Continue Reading >

Balbyter Ant-Mimic – Myrmarachne uvira

Orb Weavers

African Hermit Spider – Nephilingis cruentata

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common types of spiders found in Ghana?

The most common spiders in Ghana include several distinct species. You can frequently encounter the Tropical Tent-web Spider (Cyrtophora citricola), the Bum-eyed Spider (Bijoaraneus legonensis), and various types of Jumping Spiders. Orb-weavers and Darwin’s Bark Spiders are also prevalent throughout the country’s diverse ecosystems.

Are there black widow spiders in Ghana?

Yes, black widow spiders and their relatives, brown widows, are found in Ghana. These species belong to the Theridiidae family, also known as cobweb spiders. They are considered among the most venomous arachnids in the region, and their bites require prompt medical evaluation and professional care.

What is the biggest spider in Ghana?

The biggest spider found in Ghana is the Ornamental Baboon Spider, also called the Togo Starburst tarantula (Heteroscodra maculata). This large arboreal tarantula is known for its striking patterns and significant leg span, making it one of the most imposing arachnids native to the West African region.

How dangerous are the cobweb spiders in Ghana?

Cobweb spiders (Theridiidae family) in Ghana are considered highly venomous, with species like the black and brown widow posing a significant health risk. A bite contains potent neurotoxins that can cause severe symptoms. If you suspect a bite from a cobweb spider, seek immediate medical attention.

Can you find jumping spiders in Ghana?

Yes, various species of jumping spiders are found throughout Ghana. These spiders are known for their excellent vision and distinctive jumping behavior, which they use for hunting and navigation. While they possess venom, it is generally not considered medically significant to humans, and they are typically non-aggressive.

What does the Togo Starburst tarantula look like?

The Togo Starburst tarantula (Heteroscodra maculata) has a striking appearance with a chalky white or grey body covered in intricate black or dark grey mottled patterns. This unique, starburst-like coloration provides effective camouflage. Its robust build and hairy texture are characteristic of tarantulas native to West Africa.

Is the Orange Ladybeetle Spider found in Ghana?

Yes, the Orange Ladybeetle Spider (Paraplectana walleri) is found in Ghana. This spider is remarkable for its mimicry, closely resembling a ladybug with a bright orange, rounded abdomen and sometimes black spots. This unique appearance serves as a defense mechanism against potential predators in its habitat.

Spiders in Ghana

Common Spiders in Ghana

Biggest Spiders in Ghana

Most Venomous Spiders