India is home to a diverse range of spider species, including some of the largest and most fascinating arachnids in the world. Here’s a list of the seven largest spider species you might encounter in India.
1. Indian Tarantula (Poecilotheria regalis)
Size: Leg span up to 6–7 inches
Habitat: Southern India, especially in Tamil Nadu forests
Facts: Known for its vivid patterns and fast movement; venom is not fatal to humans but can cause severe pain.
2. Gooty Sapphire Tarantula (Poecilotheria metallica)
Size: Leg span up to 6 inches
Habitat: Found only in a small forest area in Andhra Pradesh
Facts: Famous for its iridescent blue color, extremely rare, and considered critically endangered.
3. Indian Ornamental Tarantula (Poecilotheria ornata)
Size: Leg span around 5–6 inches
Habitat: Western Ghats and Kerala forests
Facts: Known for its intricate markings and arboreal lifestyle.
4. Giant Huntsman Spider (Heteropoda maxima)
Size: Leg span up to 12 inches
Habitat: Northeastern forests
Facts: One of the largest spiders by leg span in the world, hunts actively instead of spinning webs.
5. Indian Wolf Spider (Hogna carolinensis)
Size: Body length up to 2 inches, leg span around 5 inches
Habitat: Grasslands and forest floors across India
Facts: Ground-dwelling predator, hunts insects and small invertebrates at night.
6. Indian Garden Spider (Neoscona spp.)
Size: Leg span around 4–5 inches
Habitat: Gardens, fields, and shrubs
Facts: Spins large orb-shaped webs, mostly harmless to humans.
7. Giant Wood Spider (Nephila pilipes)
Size: Leg span up to 6 inches
Habitat: Tropical forests of India
Facts: Produces strong golden silk, females are much larger than males.
FAQ
Q1. Are these giant spiders dangerous to humans?
A: Most are not lethal to humans, though some may deliver painful bites if threatened.
Q2. Where in India are the largest spiders found?
A: They are mostly found in forests, Western Ghats, northeastern regions, and southern India.
Q3. Do these spiders spin webs?
A: Some, like Nephila and Neoscona, spin large webs; others, like huntsman and wolf spiders, are active hunters.
Q4. Are these spiders endangered?
A: Species like Gooty Sapphire Tarantula are critically endangered due to habitat loss.
Q5. Can these spiders be kept as pets?
A: Certain tarantulas can be kept by enthusiasts under controlled conditions, but it requires experience and caution.
Published on : 25th October
Published by : SMITA
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