“Banana spider” is a common name that refers to several distinct species of spiders. This article clarifies which spiders are typically called “banana spiders,” focusing on the most commonly encountered species in North America and addressing others that share this name.
The Golden Silk Orb-Weaver: A Common “Banana Spider”
One of the most recognized “banana spiders” is the golden silk orb-weaver, scientifically known as Trichonephila clavipes. These spiders exhibit striking sexual dimorphism, with females being significantly larger and more colorful than males. Female golden silk orb-weavers can reach impressive sizes, with body lengths typically ranging from 25 to 50 millimeters (1 to 2 inches) and a leg span that can exceed 125 millimeters (4.9 inches).
Their appearance is distinctive, featuring a yellow or brownish-orange abdomen adorned with silvery spots and a silvery cephalothorax. Their long, slender legs often have hairy black patches above the joints. In stark contrast, the males are considerably smaller, measuring only about 4 to 8 millimeters (0.2 to 0.3 inches), and are typically dark brown. The spider’s common name also comes from the remarkable golden hue of the silk used in their large, intricate webs.
Habitat and Lifecycle of the Golden Silk Orb-Weaver
Golden silk orb-weavers thrive in warm, humid climates and are widely distributed across the southeastern United States, from Florida and the Gulf States north to Virginia. They are frequently found in forests, along trail edges, in clearings, and even in gardens or near human structures, where they can anchor their substantial webs.
These spiders are renowned for constructing exceptionally large orb webs, often measuring 1 meter (3.3 feet) or more in diameter, with anchor lines spanning several feet between trees or other elevated points. The golden color of their silk gives their webs a shimmering appearance in sunlight. These strong, semi-permanent webs are primarily used to capture small flying insects such as grasshoppers, flies, beetles, and moths, which constitute their diet. In temperate regions, Nephila clavipes typically have an annual lifecycle, with females laying eggs in sacs.
Are Golden Silk Orb-Weavers Dangerous?
Despite their intimidating size and appearance, golden silk orb-weavers are not considered dangerous to humans. They possess venom, but it is not medically significant and is mild in its effects on people. Bites from these spiders are uncommon because they are generally non-aggressive and will only bite if they feel directly threatened or are mishandled.
Should a bite occur, the reaction is typically comparable to a bee sting, resulting in mild pain, redness, and slight swelling at the bite site. These minor symptoms usually resolve within 48 hours without requiring medical intervention. Their docile nature and the minimal impact of their venom mean that encounters with golden silk orb-weavers pose little health concern.
Other Spiders Called “Banana Spiders” and Key Distinctions
The term “banana spider” also commonly refers to spiders of the genus Phoneutria, often known as Brazilian wandering spiders or armed spiders. Unlike the Golden Silk Orb-Weaver, Phoneutria species are highly venomous and pose a significant medical risk to humans. Their venom is neurotoxic, meaning it affects the nervous system, and can lead to severe symptoms such as intense pain, irregular heartbeat, excessive salivation, and in rare cases, respiratory issues or other systemic effects.
These spiders are found in Central and South America and are notorious for sometimes being found in shipments of bananas, which contributes to the “banana spider” moniker. They are robust, typically brown or grey, and are wandering spiders that actively hunt prey on the ground rather than building large capture webs like orb-weavers. Other spiders occasionally called “banana spiders” include Cupiennius species and the Hawaiian garden spider (Argiope appensa); however, these are generally not considered dangerous to humans and are distinct from the medically significant Phoneutria.