The impressive size of some spiders often sparks curiosity, leading many to wonder about the largest arachnid on Earth. This natural fascination stems from the impressive dimensions these creatures can achieve, inspiring questions about their appearance, where they live, and how they interact with their environment.
The Goliath Birdeater: Identifying the Largest Spider
The Goliath Birdeater, scientifically known as Theraphosa blondi, holds the distinction as the world’s largest spider by mass and body length. These formidable tarantulas can weigh up to 175 grams (6.2 ounces), which is comparable to the weight of a billiard ball. Their body length alone can reach up to 13 centimeters (5.1 inches), extending to an impressive leg span of up to 30 centimeters (12 inches). This makes Theraphosa blondi capable of covering an area similar to a dinner plate.
The appearance of the Goliath Birdeater is as striking as its size. Its body is covered in fine hairs, ranging in color from light tan to dark brown and black, sometimes with a golden hue. These hairs give it a robust physique. While its leg span is significant, the Goliath Birdeater’s substantial body mass truly sets it apart from other large spiders.
Where the Goliath Birdeater Lives and What It Does
The Goliath Birdeater is native to the rainforests of northern South America, inhabiting countries such as Suriname, Guyana, French Guiana, northern Brazil, eastern Colombia, and southern Venezuela. These spiders are terrestrial, meaning they live on the ground, often found in deep burrows or silk-lined tunnels under rocks and roots. They are nocturnal predators, emerging at night to hunt.
Despite its common name, the Goliath Birdeater rarely preys on birds in the wild. Its diet primarily consists of large arthropods, worms, and amphibians, including insects, frogs, and toads. Due to its size, it can also prey on small terrestrial vertebrates like rodents, lizards, and even small snakes.
Separating Fact from Fiction: Other Large Spiders
Concerns about the Goliath Birdeater’s danger to humans are often exaggerated. While it possesses fangs large enough to break human skin, its venom is considered relatively mild, with effects often compared to a wasp sting. The spider is not generally aggressive and typically bites only in self-defense or when provoked. A more common defense mechanism involves flicking urticating hairs from its abdomen. These barbed hairs can cause significant skin irritation, itching, rashes, or respiratory issues if they come into contact with skin or are inhaled.
Other spiders are notable for their size, though for different reasons than the Goliath Birdeater. The Giant Huntsman Spider (Heteropoda maxima), found in Laos, holds the record for the largest leg span, reaching up to 30 centimeters (12 inches). While its leg span can match or even exceed that of the Goliath Birdeater, the Giant Huntsman is typically less massive.