Spiders in Indonesia

Did you know that Indonesia is home to more than 50,000 spider species? Yes, the number is massive, but it does not necessarily mean that the country is heavily infested with spiders. In fact, most of spider species you can find in Indonesia are harmless and tend to shy away from humans. So, there is really no cause for alarm or concerns. Although it is best to be aware of what could possibly be lurking around the corner, especially if you plan to visit some of the must-visit tourism places in Indonesia such as Bali.

Spiders in Indonesia Identification Chart

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Common Spiders in Indonesia

Biggest Spiders in Indonesia

Most Venomous Spiders

Less Venomous Spiders

Common Spiders in Indonesia

Common Housefly Catcher (Plexippus petersi)	Black and White Spiny Spider (Gasteracantha kuhli)	Abandoned-web Orb-weaver (Parawixia dehaani)
Hasselt’s Spiny Spider	Tree Trunk Spiders	Common House Spiders (Parasteatoda tepidariorum)
Asian Hermit Spider (Nephilengys malabarensis)	—	—

Biggest Spiders in Indonesia

Giant Golden Orb Weaver Spider (Nephila pilipes)

Giant Huntsman Spider (Heteropoda maxima)

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Most Venomous Spiders

Cobweb Spiders/Tangle Web Spiders (Theridiidae)

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 >

Sicariidae

Brown Recluse Spider (Loxosceles reclusa) - The brown recluse spider is a special spider found mostly in the central and southern parts of the U.S. It's part of a small group of spiders in North America known for having strong venom, along with the Chilean recluse and black widow.… Continue Reading >

Less Venomous Spiders

Orb Weavers (Araneidae)

St. Andrews Cross (Argiope keyserlingi) - Did you know there's a spider named after a cross pattern? It's called the St. Andrews Cross spider. This spider lives in Australia and makes a web that looks like a special cross.… Continue Reading >

Giant Wood Spider (Nephila pilipes) - Meet the Nephila Pilipes! This golden orb-weaver spider calls many places home, from Asian countries like China and India to faraway Australia. It's one of the biggest orb-weaving spiders out there.… Continue Reading >

Oval St. Andrew’s Cross Spider – Argiope aemula
Kidney Garden Spider – Araneus mitificus

Jumping Spiders

Pantropical Jumping Spider – Plexippus paykulli

Huntsman Spiders

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 >

Badge Huntsman Spider – Neosparassus diana

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the biggest spider in Indonesia?

The Giant Huntsman Spider (Heteropoda maxima) is considered one of the biggest spiders in Indonesia by leg span. Another large species is the Giant Golden Orb Weaver (Nephila pilipes), which is notable for its large body and the massive, strong webs it constructs in gardens and forests.

Are spiders in Indonesia generally dangerous to humans?

No, the vast majority of Indonesia’s over 50,000 spider species are not dangerous to humans and typically avoid contact. While some venomous species exist, most are harmless. Encounters that result in a medically significant bite are rare, as these spiders are generally reclusive and not aggressive.

What are the most venomous spider families found in Indonesia?

The most venomous spider families in Indonesia include Theridiidae, commonly known as cobweb or tangle-web spiders, and the Sicariidae family. Although bites are uncommon, species within these groups possess medically significant venom. It is always best to avoid handling spiders and seek medical advice if bitten.

What kind of spider is commonly found in houses in Indonesia?

The Common House Spider (Parasteatoda tepidariorum) and the Common Housefly Catcher (Plexippus petersi), a type of jumping spider, are frequently found inside Indonesian homes. These spiders are considered harmless to humans and are often beneficial, as they prey on insects like flies and other pests.

Is the Giant Huntsman spider in Indonesia a threat to people?

No, the Giant Huntsman spider is not considered a significant threat to people despite its intimidating size. While it can deliver a painful bite if provoked, it is generally timid and prefers to flee rather than attack. Its venom is not typically dangerous to healthy human adults.

How can you identify a Black and White Spiny Spider in Indonesia?

You can identify the Black and White Spiny Spider (Gasteracantha kuhli) by its distinct appearance. It has a hard, wide abdomen that is typically white or yellow with black spots and features six prominent, sharp black spines projecting outwards. This unique shell-like body makes it easily recognizable.

Are there specific venomous spiders to watch out for in Bali?

Yes, Bali is home to venomous spiders, including species from the Theridiidae (cobweb spiders) and Sicariidae families, consistent with the rest of Indonesia. While most spiders you see will be harmless, such as orb-weavers, it is always wise to be cautious and avoid touching any unidentified spider.

Spiders in Indonesia

Common Spiders in Indonesia

Biggest Spiders in Indonesia

Most Venomous Spiders