The Brazilian wandering spider is in some cases confused with a tarantula due to its size and hair. However, there are significant differences: these two spiders are not of the same species and behave very differently. The Brazilian spider is very fast and aggressive, while the tarantulas are very slow and tame. The Brazilian wandering spider (Ctenidae) does not build a web, but moves across the ground in search of its prey. This spider is sometimes called a banana spider because it was found holed up in bananas transported to other states.
Steps
Step 1. Learn about the Brazilian wandering spider
Here are some of its main features.
- Physical characteristics: up to 25 mm long with a leg opening of 127 mm.
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Poisonous:
Yes.
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He lives in:
South America and Central America.
- Diet: this spider is an active hunter. It feeds on crickets, lizards, insects and mice.
Method 1 of 3: Identify a Brazilian Wandering Spider
These spiders are very large and very hairy. They move quickly, so you may not have time to spot all of their characteristics. Under no circumstances should you attempt to trap this spider for examination. Brazilian wandering spiders are very aggressive and their poisonous fangs easily penetrate human skin.
Step 1. Note the color of the spider; most wandering spiders are yellow-brown and have black stripes
Step 2. Make a note of the eyes
Their 8 eyes are arranged in three rows. The first row has 2 eyes, the second 4 and the third 2 large and very distant eyes.
Step 3. Look at the legs; they have black stripes and each leg has 2 or in some cases 3 claws
Method 2 of 3: Recognizing the Habitat of the Brazilian Wandering Spider
Brazilian wandering spiders are very aggressive when disturbed, so you should be aware of its favorite hiding places if you live in or travel to a country where this spider is present.
Step 1. Spot these spiders on the ground, or inside homes during the day when they have a tendency to hide from the light
Here are some common hiding places:
- In the folds of blankets and clothes
- Cans
- Shoes and boots
- Automobiles
- Piles of wood
- External sheds and garage
- Closets (or any dark, enclosed space in a house)
Method 3 of 3: Curing a Bite
The venom of this spider is the most active of all spiders in the world. If you are bitten by one of these spiders, you will need to seek medical attention as quickly as possible. If this is not possible, it is vital to follow the steps below to slow down the poison:
Step 1. Lie down and stay as calm as possible - this will help slow down the rate of spread of the poison in the body
Step 2. Apply a compression bandage to the bite
This action will also serve to slow down the spread of the poison.
Step 3. Wash the bite area with soap and water
Step 4. Get professional medical attention as soon as possible
A bite from these spiders can be fatal.
Advice
- Remember that these spiders prefer to walk on the ground. Always wear sturdy shoes if you are in an area where these spiders are present.
- Brazilian wandering spiders typically live for 1 to 2 years, and are prey to birds, reptiles, and amphibians.
- There is a particular toxin in this spider's venom that causes prolonged erections in human males. Medical staff in South America and Central America are often able to diagnose a bite from these spiders thanks to this symptom.
Warnings
- A healthy adult should be treated for the bite within 6 to 8 hours. Babies are much more sensitive to poison, and treatment for a bite should never be delayed.
- The Brazilian wandering spider has been reported multiple times in the Guinness book as the most venomous spider in the world.
