Spiders in Iran

Spiders are without a doubt the most diverse and largest group of animals, especially if you take into account the number of species. Iran is one of the countries in the world known to have some of the most dangerous. Should you wish to know more about the fascinating and captivating spiders species in Iran, keep on reading below. The spiders we mentioned below show remarkable range of characteristics – some are completely harmless while others have necrotic effect.

Spiders in Iran Identification Chart

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Common Spiders in Iran

Biggest Spiders in Iran

Most Venomous Spiders

Less Venomous Spiders

Common Spiders in Iran

Velvet Spider (Loureedia phoenixi)	Wall Crab Spiders (Selenopidae)	Wolf Spiders
Crab Spiders	—	—

Biggest Spiders in Iran

Golden Silk Orb Weaver (Trichonephlia clavipes)

Tarantula Wolf Spider (Lycosa tarantula)

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Most Venomous Spiders

Cobweb Spiders/Tangle Web Spiders (Theridiidae)

Mediterranean Black Widow (Latrodectus tredecimguttatus) - The Mediterranean black widow spider has a history that dates back to 1790 when Italian expert Pietro Rossi introduced us to it. These spiders belong to the comb-footed family.… Continue Reading >

Steatoda paykulliana - Meet the Steatoda paykulliana spider! It belongs to the comb-footed spiders family. Fun fact: it was named after a famous explorer from Sweden, Gustaf von Paykull.… Continue Reading >

White Widow (Latrodectus pallidus) - The White Widow Spider is a unique member of the cobweb spiders family. While you might have heard of black or redback spiders, the White Widow is different.… Continue Reading >

Sicariidae

Mediterranean Recluse (Loxosceles rufescens) - Guess where the Mediterranean recluse spider comes from? That's right, the Mediterranean areas! Even though it started there, now you can find this spider all over the world.… Continue Reading >

Less Venomous Spiders

Jumping Spiders

Red-bellied Jumping Spider – Philaeus chrysops
Pantropical Jumping Spider – Plexippus paykulli

Orb Weavers

Banded Garden (Argiope trifasciata) - The banded garden spider is a common spider with two types: Argiope trifasciata deserticola and Argiope trifasciata kauaiensis. They prefer warm places and usually aren't around in cold winters because they don't like the chill.… Continue Reading >

Lobed Argiope (Argiope lobata) - Discover the Argiope lobata, a fascinating orb weaver spider that makes its home across three continents. Here, you'll find intriguing facts and details about this widespread spider.… Continue Reading >

Cross Orb Weaver (Araneus diadematus) - Did you know the Cross Orb Weaver spider comes from Europe and North America? Their legs are super cool because they can spin special round webs.… Continue Reading >

Golden Silk Orb-Weaver (Nephila) - Have you ever seen a spider's web that shines like gold? Meet the Golden Silk Orb-Weaver! With 23 different types living around the world, they're known for their special golden webs.… Continue Reading >

Nursery Web Spiders (Pisauridae)

European Nursery Web Spider – Pisaura mirabilis

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there dangerous venomous spiders in Iran?

Yes, Iran is home to several medically significant venomous spiders. The most notable groups include Cobweb Spiders from the Theridiidae family and spiders from the Sicariidae family, which are known to possess potent venom. Some species can have a necrotic effect, making their bites a serious concern.

What is the biggest type of spider found in Iran?

The Golden Silk Orb Weaver and the Tarantula Wolf Spider are among the biggest spiders found in Iran. These species are notable for their considerable body size and impressive leg span compared to other local arachnids. Their large stature makes them two of the most physically imposing spiders in the region.

What are the most common spiders encountered in Iran?

The most common spiders in Iran include the Velvet Spider, Wall Crab Spiders, Wolf Spiders, and various other Crab Spiders. These species are frequently found across different habitats within the country. Their abundance makes them a familiar part of Iran’s ecosystem, each with its own unique characteristics.

Is the Velvet Spider (Loureedia phoenixi) native to Iran?

Yes, the recently discovered Velvet Spider species, Loureedia phoenixi, is native to Iran. This particular spider is recognized for its striking appearance and velvety texture, making it a subject of interest for arachnologists. It is a distinct part of the country’s diverse and fascinating arachnofauna, showcasing unique regional biodiversity.

How can you identify a Wolf Spider in Iran?

Wolf spiders in Iran are typically identified by their robust build, mottled gray and brown coloring for camouflage, and large, prominent eyes. Unlike many spiders, they do not spin webs to catch prey but actively hunt on the ground. Their swift movements and solitary nature are also key identifying behaviors.

Are Jumping Spiders in Iran considered harmful?

No, Jumping Spiders found in Iran, such as the Red-bellied and Pantropical species, are not considered harmful to humans. While they possess venom to subdue their insect prey, it is not medically significant to people. They are generally non-aggressive and are more likely to flee than bite a human.

What kind of venom do Sicariidae spiders in Iran have?

The Sicariidae family of spiders found in Iran possesses a potent necrotic venom. This type of venom is cytotoxic, meaning it destroys tissue and can cause severe, slow-healing lesions or wounds around the bite area. Due to this effect, their bite is considered medically significant and requires immediate attention.

Spiders in Iran

Common Spiders in Iran

Biggest Spiders in Iran

Most Venomous Spiders