Tennessee’s diverse habitats are home to a wide variety of spiders, and the size of some species often sparks fascination. Encountering a large arachnid leads many to question which one holds the title for the biggest in the state. The search for Tennessee’s largest spider centers on a powerful, active, ground-dwelling species.
Identifying the Largest Species
The largest spider species found in Tennessee, based on overall body mass, is the Carolina Wolf Spider (Hogna carolinensis). This impressive arachnid is the largest wolf spider in North America and claims the title for the biggest spider in the state by a considerable margin. The female is significantly larger and more robust than the male.
An adult female Carolina Wolf Spider typically has a body length ranging from 22 to 35 millimeters (nearly one and a half inches). When measuring the full leg span, this spider can reach a diameter of up to four inches. The male is smaller, with a body length closer to 18 to 20 millimeters. This substantial size and dense body structure distinguish Hogna carolinensis as the most massive spider in Tennessee.
Appearance and Hunting Style
The Carolina Wolf Spider has a hairy, mottled body that provides excellent camouflage. Its coloration usually consists of shades of brown, gray, and black, helping it blend into leaf litter, soil, and bark. A distinguishing characteristic is their unique eye arrangement, which includes two large, forward-facing eyes that grant them exceptional vision for nocturnal hunting.
Unlike many spiders that rely on silk, this species is an active, terrestrial hunter. It does not construct webs to ensnare prey, instead using its speed and eyesight to pursue and ambush insects and other small invertebrates. The spider often lives in self-made burrows or shelters, waiting at the entrance to pounce on passing victims. This aggressive, ground-dwelling behavior is a hallmark of the wolf spider family.
Other Large Spiders and Bite Risk
While the Carolina Wolf Spider holds the record for body size, other large spiders in Tennessee may appear bigger due to their long, slender legs. For example, the Dark Fishing Spider (Dolomedes tenebrosus) and certain Huntsman spiders can have leg spans that rival the wolf spider’s, though their bodies are less bulky. Fishing spiders are semi-aquatic and found near water, while Huntsman spiders are known for their flattened bodies and speed.
The Carolina Wolf Spider is not considered a threat to human health. While any large spider may bite if threatened or handled, the venom is not medically significant for humans. A bite is usually compared to a bee or wasp sting, resulting in localized pain, redness, or minor swelling that quickly dissipates. These spiders are primarily beneficial, acting as natural pest control by preying on insects.