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Giant Huntsman Spider (Heteropoda maxima)

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description Giant Huntsman Spider (Heteropoda maxima) Overview

Discovered in a Laos cave in 2001 by Peter Jäger, Heteropoda maxima is a species of huntsman spider recognized for having the largest leg span of any known spider, reaching up to 30 centimeters. Unlike many spiders, it does not spin webs to catch prey, relying instead on its speed and size for hunting. It belongs to the family Sparassidae and exhibits a pale coloration adapted to its cave-dwelling environment.

help Giant Huntsman Spider (Heteropoda maxima) FAQ

What spider has the largest leg span in the world?

The Giant Huntsman Spider holds the record for the largest leg span of any spider in the world, capable of reaching up to 30 centimeters (12 inches) across. Despite their massive size, they are native to a very specific cave environment.

Where was the Giant Huntsman Spider first discovered?

The Giant Huntsman Spider was first discovered inside a cave in Laos in 2001. German arachnologist Peter Jäger identified the spider, noting its pale coloration and unique adaptation to the dark cave habitat.

Is the Giant Huntsman Spider dangerous to humans?

Like other huntsman spiders, the Giant Huntsman is not considered highly dangerous to humans, as it possesses only mild venom. They are hunting spiders that rely on speed and size to catch insects rather than using a web.

What is the scientific name of the Giant Huntsman Spider?

The scientific name for this record-breaking species is Heteropoda maxima. The specific name "maxima" refers to its maximum, record-holding size among the sparassid family of spiders.

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