brazilian wandering spider bite cure

Brazilian wandering spiders: Bites & other facts

The spider's name means "murderess" in Greek, which is appropriate for the deadly arachnid.

Classification/taxonomy

Size & characteristics, bites and venom, additional resources.

The Brazilian wandering spider, also called armed spiders or banana spiders, belongs to the genus Phoneutria , which means "murderess" in Greek. And it's no wonder why — it's one of the most venomous spiders on Earth . Its bite, which delivers neurotoxic venom, can be deadly to humans, especially children, although antivenom makes death unlikely.

Guinness World Records has previously named the Brazilian wandering spider the world's most venomous spider multiple times (though the current record-holder is the Sydney funnel-web spider, Atrax robustus , according to Guinness ). But, as the late Jo-Anne Sewlal, who was an arachnologist at the University of the West Indies in Trinidad and Tobago, told Live Science, "classifying an animal as deadly is controversial," as the amount of damage depends on the amount of venom injected. 

Jo-Anne Sewlal was a noted arachnologist from Trinidad and Tobago. While completing her PhD, she received the National Institute of Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology (NIHERST) 2012 Award for Excellence in Science and Technology for Junior Scientist. In 2013, She received a doctorate in zoology from the University of the West Indies. She discovered several species of spiders in her home country, surveyed the arachnids across several countries the Caribbean and appeared as an expert on the topic on The Science Channel. She died of an allergic reaction in January 2020.

There are nine species of Brazilian wandering spider, all of which are nocturnal and can be found in Brazil. Some species also can be found throughout Central and South America, from Costa Rica to Argentina, according to a 2008 article in the journal American Entomologist . Study author Richard S. Vetter, a research associate in the department of entomology at the University of California, Agriculture and Natural Resources, wrote that specimens of these powerful arachnids have been mistakenly exported to North America and Europe in banana shipments. However, Vetter noted, in many cases of cargo infestation, the spider in question is a harmless banana spider (genus Cupiennius ) that is misidentified as a Phoneutria . The two types of spiders look similar.

The taxonomy of Brazilian wandering spiders, according to the Integrated Taxonomic Information System (ITIS) , is:

Kingdom : Animalia Subkingdom : Bilateria Infrakingdom : Protostomia Superphylum : Ecdysozoa Phylum : Arthropoda Subphylum : Chelicerata Class : Arachnida Order : Araneae Family : Ctenidae Genus : Phoneutria  

• Phoneutria bahiensis
• Phoneutria boliviensis
• Phoneutria eickstedtae
• Phoneutria fera
• Phoneutria keyserlingi
• Phoneutria nigriventer
• Phoneutria pertyi
• Phoneutria reidyi
• Phoneutria depilata , according to a 2021 study published in the journal ZooKeys , which found that Phoneutria boliviensis actually included two separate species from different habitats. 

Brazilian wandering spiders are large, with bodies reaching up to 2 inches (5 centimeters) and a leg span of up to 7 inches (18 cm), according to the Natural History Museum in Karlsruhe, Germany. The species vary in color, though all are hairy and mostly brown and gray, although some species have lightly colored spots on their abdomen. Many species have bands of black and yellow or white on the underside of the two front legs, according to the University of Florida . 

These arachnids "are called wandering spiders because they do not build webs but wander on the forest floor at night, actively hunting prey," Sewlal told Live Science in an interview conducted in 2014, before her death. They kill by both ambush and direct attack.

They spend most of their day hiding under logs or in crevices, and come out to hunt at night. They eat insects, other spiders and sometimes, small amphibians, reptiles and mice. 

Research into one species of Brazilian wandering spider, Phoneutria boliviensis , revealed that these spiders eat a mix of arthropods and reptiles. DNA metabarcoding, a technique that examines the DNA and RNA in a sample, of the guts of 57 spiders identified 96 prey species, including flies, beetles, butterflies, moths, grasshoppers, locusts and crickets, according to research from the University of Tolima and the University of Ibagué in Colombia . Some of the female spiders also ate lizards and snakes.

While their bites are powerful and painful, "their bites are a means of self-defense and only done if they are provoked intentionally or by accident," Sewlal said.

In the Brazilian wandering spider, just as in most spider species, the female is larger than the male. Males approach females cautiously when attempting to mate, according to the biology department at the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse . Males perform a dance to get females' attention, and males often fight each other over the female. The female can be picky, and she often turns down many males before choosing a mating partner. Once she does pick one, the male needs to watch out; females often attack the males once copulation is finished.

The female then can store the sperm in a separate chamber from the eggs until she is ready to fertilize them. She will lay up to 1,000 eggs at a time, which are kept safe in a spun-silk egg sac.

Brazilian wandering spiders typically live for one or two years.

Brazilian wandering spiders' venom is a complex cocktail of toxins, proteins and peptides, according to the Natural History Museum in Karlsruhe, Germany. The venom affects ion channels and chemical receptors in victims' neuromuscular systems.

After a human is bitten by one of these spiders, he or she may experience initial symptoms such as severe burning pain at the site of the bite, sweating and goosebumps, Sewlal said. Within 30 minutes, symptoms become systemic and include high or low blood pressure , fast or a slow heart rate , nausea, abdominal cramping, hypothermia, vertigo, blurred vision, convulsions and excessive sweating associated with shock. People who are bitten by a Brazilian wandering spider should seek medical attention immediately.

Their  venom is perhaps most famous for triggering painful and long-lasting erections . For that reason, in a 2023 study, scientists reported that they were testing the venom in humans as a potential treatment for erectile dysfunction in those for whom Viagra didn't work.

However, these bites are rare, and envenomations, or exposure to these toxins from a spider bite, are usually mild, Vetter said. For instance, a 2000 study in the journal Revista do Instituto de Medicina Tropical de São Paulo found that only 2.3% of people with bites who came to a Brazilian hospital over a 13-year period were treated with antivenom. (The other bites did not contain enough venom to require it.) Most of the bites were from the species P. nigriventer and P. keyserlingi in eastern coastal Brazil. About 4,000 bites reportedly happen each year in Brazil, but only 0.5% of those cases are severe, according to a 2018 study in the journal Clinical Toxinology in Australia, Europe, and Americas . Meanwhile, 15 deaths have been attributed to Phoneutria in Brazil since 1903, the 2018 study reported. 

"It is unlikely that the spider would inject all of its venom into you, as this venom is not only needed as a means of defense but to immobilize prey," Sewlal said. "So if it did inject all of its venom, it [would] have to wait until its body manufactured more before it could hunt." That would also leave the spider vulnerable to being attacked by predators.

Furthermore, Sewlal pointed out that venom production requires a lot of a spider's resources and time. "So if the spider were to attack frequently and use up all of its venom, it [would] be safe to assume that it has a ready food supply to replace the energy and resources used. This situation does not exist in the wild."

• Learn more about Brazilian wandering spiders from the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse .
• Read about several species of Brazilian wandering spiders, including several images of the arachnids at the University of Florida .
• Find a spider in your bananas? It may or may not be a deadly species, according to the University of California, Riverside .

This article was originally published on Nov. 20, 2014. 

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Jessie Szalay is a contributing writer to FSR Magazine. Prior to writing for Live Science, she was an editor at Living Social. She holds an MFA in nonfiction writing from George Mason University and a bachelor's degree in sociology from Kenyon College. 

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Can a Bite From a Brazilian Wandering Spider Cause a Four-Hour Erection?

In many cases, the erection is merely an early warning before the complete shutdown of multiple organ systems., alex kasprak, published aug. 16, 2023.

About this rating

On Aug. 14, 2023, the account First Doctor  posted what it asserted to be an "exclusive" finding on the social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter:

While far from an exclusive — or even a remotely new — finding, the two claims in the tweet were factual. A bite from Phoneutria nigriventer , commonly known as the Brazilian wandering spider, can indeed result in a long-lasting and painful erection, a condition known as priapism when it lasts more than four hours . 

While the toxicity and high risk of death posed by the chemical thought to be responsible for the erections makes its use as a potential erectile dysfunction (ED) therapy challenging, if not literally impossible , it has been used to develop similar chemicals that may have therapeutic potential. 

Phoneutria nigriventer 's erection-causing effects have been known to science since the 1970s. The 1971 book "Venemous Animals and Their Venom" described priapistic effects of this spider's bite on mice and dogs. The authors also included anecdotal reports from humans who had been bitten:

A pattern which resembles that of dog envenomation is also noticed in humans bitten by Phoneutria nigriventer: local unbearable pain, salivation, visual disturbances, sweating, prostration, priapism, and death. 

Research published in 2008 identified the chemical within the venom likely responsible for the erections — a peptide now named PnTx2-6. "[Pn]Tx2-6 enhanced erectile function in [...] rats, via the [Nitrous Oxide] NO pathway," the study reported. "Our studies suggest that [Pn]Tx2-6 could be important for development of new pharmacological agents for treatment of erectile dysfunction."

The interest in this toxin as a treatment for ED stems, in part, because it operates in a completely different way than common ED treatments like Viagra, as reported in 2011 by NBC News:

Viagra, Levitra and other ED drugs on the market work by inhibiting an enzyme called PDE5. To get an erection, a man's body must release nitric oxide, which relaxes the smooth muscle around the arteries of the penis, allowing for his blood vessels to dilate. The nitric oxide is a first step in a series of chemical reactions that allow this muscle relaxation to take place.  One step in the series is cGMP, a signaling molecule that acts to keep the muscles relaxed. PDE5 degrades cGMP. That's a good thing for ensuring that erections don't last forever, but too much PDE5 can mean an erection doesn't happen at all. By blocking the enzyme, PDE5 inhibitors solve the problem. The spider toxin works differently. Instead of affecting PDE5, the compound seems to trigger nitric oxide release, acting directly to relax the smooth muscles. Because about 30 percent of patients don't respond to PDE5 inhibitors, the toxin could provide an alternative to ED treatments currently on the market, [Study author Kenia] Nunes said." 

In 2022, the same research group responsible for identifying PnTx2-6 published a paper arguing, in part, that due to the extreme pain and high toxicity of the chemical, its "therapeutic use is impossible," but that it is "an excellent pharmacological tool for studying erectile function." That study synthesized a new peptide, PnPP-19, based on the toxic original.

Based on studies performed on laboratory mice, PnPP-19 appears to have the potential to cause erections without the pain or toxicity of the spider venom:

This synthetic peptide also potentiates erectile function via NO/cGMP, but it [...] displays nontoxic properties in animals even at high doses. PnPP-19 effectively potentiates erectile function not only after subcutaneous or intravenous administration but also following topical application.

The assertions in First Doctor's post were factual because the priapism caused by Phoneutria nigriventer's bites have been well-documented and well-studied for decades and because the active ingredients in that venom have been used to investigate new ED therapies. As such, we rate the claim as "True."

Bücherl, Wolfgang, and Eleanor E. Buckley. Venomous Animals and Their Venoms: Venomous Invertebrates. Elsevier, 2013.

Nunes, K. P., et al. "Tx2-6 Toxin of the Phoneutria Nigriventer Spider Potentiates Rat Erectile Function." Toxicon : Official Journal of the International Society on Toxinology, vol. 51, no. 7, June 2008, pp. 1197–206. PubMed Central, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.toxicon.2008.02.010.

Silberman, Michael, et al. "Priapism." StatPearls, StatPearls Publishing, 2023. PubMed, http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK459178/.

Silva, Carolina Nunes da, et al. "From the PnTx2-6 Toxin to the PnPP-19 Engineered Peptide: Therapeutic Potential in Erectile Dysfunction, Nociception, and Glaucoma." Frontiers in Molecular Biosciences, vol. 9, 2022. Frontiers, https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fmolb.2022.831823.

"Spider Venom Shows Promise for Treating Erectile Dysfunction." NBC News, 7 Sept. 2012, http://www.nbcnews.com/health/health-news/spider-venom-shows-promise-treating-erectile-dysfunction-flna1B5794477.  

By Alex Kasprak

Alex Kasprak is an investigative journalist and science writer reporting on scientific misinformation, online fraud, and financial crime.

Article Tags

Brazilian Wandering Spider Bite: Is It Poisonous? What You Need to Know

The Brazilian wandering spider, known scientifically as Phoneutria, is a genus of spiders native to South and Central America.

They have garnered attention for their venomous bite, which can cause various symptoms and has the potential to be fatal.

This article will delve into the nature of the Brazilian wandering spider’s bite and its potential effects on humans.

Brazilian wandering spiders are notorious for having one of the most venomous bites among spiders in the world.

The severity of a bite’s effects is dependent on the amount of venom injected, and in some instances, the bite might not be as harmful as anticipated.

However, it is essential to be aware of the possible symptoms and seek immediate medical attention if bitten.

Some symptoms of a Brazilian wandering spider bite may include pain at the bite site, difficulty breathing, blurred vision, and sweating.

In severe cases, the bite can also cause high blood pressure, vomiting, and even death.

Prompt treatment can help mitigate the potential harm caused by these venomous bites and prevent long-lasting health consequences.

Brazilian Wandering Spider: Overview

The Brazilian wandering spider , also known as banana spiders , can be found primarily in South America. They prefer:

• Tropical forests
• Subtropical areas
• Human settlements

Physical Characteristics

Brazilian wandering spiders have the following features:

• Size: Up to 2 inches (5 cm) in body length
• Leg span: Can reach up to 6 inches (15 cm)
• Hairy: Present on their legs and abdomen
• Color: Varies from brown to black, with some species showcasing red or orange patterns

Phoneutria nigriventer is one species within this group.

Source: Pavel Kirillov from St.Petersburg, Russia ,  CC BY-SA 2.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

These spiders demonstrate unique behavior:

• Nocturnal : They’re more active at night.
• Aggressive : They have a defensive posture when threatened, which includes lifting their front legs.
• Venomous : They possess a potent venom that can be dangerous to humans.

Table: Brazilian Wandering Spider vs. Common House Spider

The Venomous Bite

Venom composition.

The Brazilian wandering spider, also known as Phoneutria, contains a complex cocktail of toxins in their venom. Some of the critical components include:

• Neurotoxins
• Insecticidal peptides
• Pain-inducing substances

Envenomation and Its Effects

When a Brazilian wandering spider bites, it injects venom that can lead to various symptoms such as:

• Pain that radiates from the bite
• Muscle cramps
• Increased sweating

Although bites are rarely fatal, serious complications can arise when left untreated, potentially leading to death.

Comparison with Other Venomous Spiders

The Brazilian wandering spider is considered one of the deadliest spiders due to its potent venom.

However, antivenom is available for its bite, significantly reducing the risk of severe complications.

In comparison, other venomous spiders like the black widow , brown recluse , and Sydney funnel-web spider are also known for their potent venom but have varying severity of symptoms.

Source: Bernard DUPONT from FRANCE ,  CC BY-SA 2.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

Symptoms and Treatment of Brazilian Wandering Spider Bites

Recognizing the bite.

Recognizing the bite of the Brazilian wandering spider is crucial for seeking proper medical attention.

The main signs of a Brazilian wandering spider bite are:

• Redness and swelling around the bite area
• Intense pain at the bite site

Immediate and Long-term Symptoms

After being bitten by a Brazilian wandering spider, you may experience immediate and long-term symptoms.

Some common immediate symptoms include:

• Excessive sweating
• High blood pressure
• Numbness, usually around the bite area

Brazilian wandering spider bite symptoms can escalate and result in more severe complications like envenomation.

Long-term symptoms can range from:

• Muscle pain or cramping
• Abdominal pain
• Respiratory distress

Prevention and Safety Tips

Avoiding bites.

Brazilian wandering spiders can easily be spotted due to their large body length and venomous bite.

To avoid bites from these spiders, follow these tips:

• Keep an eye out : Be cautious in areas where spiders are common.
• Protective clothing : Wear long-sleeved shirts, pants, gloves, and boots when in areas with spider activity.
• Stack materials properly : Minimize empty spaces between stacked materials to reduce hiding spots for spiders.

What to Do if Bitten

If you suspect a bite from a Brazilian wandering spider, take the following first aid steps:

• Clean the bite area with soap and water
• Apply a cold pack to the bite site to reduce swelling
• Antivenom is available for Brazilian wandering spider bites
• Proper treatment can minimize long-term effects and complications
• Delayed treatment may worsen symptoms and lead to severe complications

Unfortunately, antivenom may not be readily available in certain regions. It is important to contact the health authorities immediately, who can help coordinate procurement of the antivenom.

It’s important to note that immediate treatment is crucial as Brazilian wandering spiders are venomous and their bites can lead to life-threatening complications.

Source: Rodrigo Tetsuo Argenton ,  CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

Frequency of Bites

While the Brazilian wandering spider is notorious for its venomous bite, actual incidents of bites on humans are relatively rare.

These spiders are nocturnal and tend to avoid populated areas during the day.

However, due to their wandering nature, they sometimes find themselves in human habitats, especially in rural or suburban areas close to their natural habitats.

Most bites occur when the spider feels threatened or cornered.

It’s worth noting that not every bite results in envenomation; sometimes, the spider delivers a “dry bite” without injecting venom.

Nevertheless, given the potential severity of a venomous bite, any encounter should be treated with caution.

Interesting Brazilian Wandering Spider Facts

Spider mating and reproduction.

The Brazilian wandering spider or armed spider , scientifically known as Phoneutria fera , is known for its unique mating and reproduction habits.

These arachnids, like other spiders, engage in an elaborate mating dance:

• Males approach females cautiously
• Present a gift (usually prey like crickets)
• Perform vibrations and touches

Once successful in their ambush , males deposit sperm in a female’s reproductive organ through their specialized pedipalps.

Female Brazilian wandering spiders create silk egg sacs to protect their offspring.

These egg sacs can contain up to 1,000 eggs, ensuring the survival of the species.

Unique Uses of Spider Venom

Brazilian wandering spider venom is one of the most potent in the world . The venom has an impact on the nervous system and can cause symptoms similar to a beesting.

However, researchers have found potential uses for this venom, specifically in treating erectile dysfunction.

A peptide in the spider’s venom called Tx2-6 can cause erections.

Studies have shown that this peptide could be a potential alternative to conventional erectile dysfunction treatments.

The Brazilian wandering spider, native to South and Central America, is renowned for its potent venom, making it one of the world’s most venomous spiders.

While their bite can lead to severe symptoms, including pain, blurred vision, and even death, timely medical intervention can mitigate these effects.

Despite their fearsome reputation, these spiders play a vital role in their ecosystem.

Their unique behaviors, from nocturnal habits to intricate mating dances, make them a fascinating subject of study.

As with any venomous creature, understanding and respecting their habitat is key to coexistence.

Reader Emails

Over the years, our website, whatsthatbug.com has received hundreds of letters and some interesting images asking us about Brazilian wandering spiders.

Scroll down to have a look at some of them.

Letter 1 – Wandering Spider from Costa Rica

We believe this is one of the potentially dangerous Wandering Spiders in the family Ctenidae based on this Photographers Direct image.

Letter 2 – Wandering Spider from Costa Rica

Hi Reisa, Back in February 2006, we received two letters with images of spiders from Costa Rica and Ecuador. At that time, we identified them as Wandering Spiders. Eric Eaton wrote: “either in the family Ctenidae or Sparassidae.

They tend to be more common, and even larger than, wolf spiders in the tropics. At least one species, Phoneutria fera, is extremely aggressive, with potentially deadly venom.

Do not mess with large spiders in Central and South America! The venomous types are very difficult to distinguish from harmless species, and in any event, a bite is going to be really painful.

These spiders sometimes stow away in bananas, houseplants, and other exported goods, so they can show up in odd places. Be careful where you put your hands.”

We found a site with an image of Phoneutria fera, and the coloration is different, but the body shape is very similar.

Bugman aka Daniel Marlos has been identifying bugs since 1999. whatsthatbug.com is his passion project and it has helped millions of readers identify the bug that has been bugging them for over two decades. You can reach out to him through our Contact Page .

View all posts

Piyushi is a nature lover, blogger and traveler at heart. She lives in beautiful Canada with her family. Piyushi is an animal lover and loves to write about all creatures.

1 thought on “Brazilian Wandering Spider Bite: Is It Poisonous? What You Need to Know”

This is Phoneutria boliviensis – the only Phoneutria that occurs in Central America. It seems that this species is considered to be the least dangerous of its genus. All the same, I would not care to be bitten by one.

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Spider bites

On this page, preparing for your appointment.

Spider bites can be mistaken for other skin sores that are red, painful or swollen. Many skin sores attributed to spider bites turn out to have been caused by bites from other bugs, such as ants, fleas, mites, mosquitoes and biting flies. Skin infections and other skin conditions, even burns, can be mistaken for spider bites.

Your doctor will likely diagnose a spider bite based on your history and your signs and symptoms. The process might involve determining whether anyone saw a spider bite you, having an expert identify the spider, and ruling out other possible causes of the signs and symptoms.

Black widow identification

Some clues for identifying black widow spiders include:

• Shiny black body with long legs
• Red hourglass shape on the belly
• Length of entire body, including legs, about 1 inch (2.5 cm) across

• Black widow spider

The black widow spider is known for the red hourglass marking on its belly.

Brown recluse identification

Some clues for identifying brown recluse spiders include:

• Golden or dark brown body with long legs
• Dark violin shape on top of the leg attachment segment
• Six eyes — a pair in front and a pair on both sides — rather than the usual spider pattern of eight eyes in two rows of four
• Central body is about 1/2 inch (1.2 cm) across

• Brown recluse spider

The brown recluse spider is known for the violin-shaped marking on its top.

Most spider bites usually heal on their own in about a week. A bite from a recluse spider takes longer to heal and sometimes leaves a scar.

First-aid treatment for spider bites includes the following steps:

• Clean the wound with mild soap and water. Apply an antibiotic ointment three times a day to help prevent infection.
• Apply a cool compress over the bite for 15 minutes each hour. Use a clean cloth dampened with water or filled with ice. This helps reduce pain and swelling.
• If possible, elevate the affected area.
• Take an over-the-counter pain reliever as needed.
• If the affected area is itchy, an antihistamine, such as diphenhydramine (Benadryl) or certirizine (Zyrtec), might help.
• Observe the bite for signs of worsening or infection. You might need antibiotics if the bite develops into an open wound or becomes infected.

For pain and muscle spasms, your doctor might prescribe pain medicine, muscle relaxants or both. You might also need a tetanus shot.

Black widow antivenom

If a black widow bite is causing severe pain or life-threatening symptoms, your doctor might recommend antivenom, which is usually given through a vein (intravenously). Symptoms usually ease within about 30 minutes of receiving the antivenom. Antivenom can cause serious allergic reactions, so it must be used with caution.

If you've been bitten by a spider that you suspect is dangerous, call your primary care doctor or go to an urgent care center. If your doctor has online services, an option may be to email a photo of the spider to your doctor.

What you can do

To help your doctor understand your symptoms and how they might relate to a spider bite:

• Bring the spider or a photo of the spider with you, if you can do so safely
• List any symptoms you're experiencing
• List questions to ask your doctor

Some basic questions you might want to ask include:

• Is this a dangerous spider bite?
• If this isn't a spider bite, what are possible causes for my symptoms?
• Do I need any tests?
• How long will my symptoms last?
• What is the best course of action?

What to expect from your doctor

Your doctor is likely to ask you a number of questions. Being ready to answer them might reserve time to go over any points you want to spend more time on. Your doctor might ask:

• When did you begin experiencing symptoms?
• What were you doing in the hours before your symptoms started?
• Have your symptoms gotten worse?
• Does anything relieve your symptoms or make them worse?

Jul 30, 2021

• Dinulos JGH. Infestations and bites. In: Habif's Clinical Dermatology. 7th ed. Elsevier; 2021. https://www.clinicalkey.com. Accessed March 2, 2021.
• Thompson, DA. Spider bite. In: Adult Telephone Protocols: Office Version. 4th ed. American Academy of Pediatrics; 2019.
• Auerbach PS, et al., eds. Arthropod and mosquito bites and stings. In: Field Guide to Wilderness Medicine. 5th ed. Elsevier; 2019. https://www.clinicalkey.com. Accessed March 3, 2021.
• Venomous spiders. National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health. https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/topics/spiders. Accessed March 3, 2021.
• Brown recluse spider. Occupational Safety and Health Administration. https://www.osha.gov/OshDoc/data_Hurricane_Facts/brown_recluse_spider.html. Accessed March 3, 2021.
• Black widow spider. Occupational Safety and Health Administration. https://www.osha.gov/OshDoc/data_Hurricane_Facts/black_widow_spider.html. Accessed March 3, 2021.
• Patterson JW. Arthropod-induced diseases. In: Weedon's Skin Pathology. 5th ed. Elsevier; 2021. https://www.clinicalkey.com. Accessed March 2, 2021.
• Diaz JH, et al. Common spider bites. American Family Physician. https://www.aafp.org/afp/2007/0315/p869.html. Accessed March 15, 2016.
• Vetter RS, et al. Bites of recluse spiders. https://www.uptodate.com/contents/search. Accessed March 4, 2021.
• Swanson DL, et al. Clinical manifestations and diagnosis of widow spider bites. https://www.uptodate.com/contents/search. Accessed March 4, 2021.
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Medical Information

First Aid for Brazilian Wandering Spider Bite

What is a brazilian wandering spider bite.

Brazilian wandering spiders, also known as banana spiders, are one of the most venomous spiders in the world. They are found primarily in South and Central America and are known for their aggressive behavior and wandering tendencies.

Identification:

• Brazilian wandering spiders have a brown body with distinctive yellow markings on their legs
• They have long and slender legs that are covered in spines
• They have a small body, but their legs can span up to 6 inches (15 centimeters)
• They have two large fangs that are often visible when they open their mouth

What are the Causes of Brazilian Wandering Spider Bite?

Brazilian wandering spiders are venomous and are capable of causing serious envenomation when they bite.

• The venom of the spider contains a neurotoxin that attacks the nervous system, causing muscle spasms, breathing difficulties, and other severe symptoms
• The venom can also cause an excessive release of serotonin, leading to increased heart rate, sweating, and elevated blood pressure

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Brazilian Wandering Spider Bite?

The following signs and symptoms of Brazilian Wandering Spider Bite may be noted:

• Severe pain at the site of the bite that may radiate to other parts of the body
• Sweating and tingling sensations in the mouth and tongue
• Muscular twitching, spasms, and cramps
• Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
• Nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain
• Increased heart rate and high blood pressure
• Unconsciousness and convulsions

How is First Aid administered for Brazilian Wandering Spider Bite ?

Immediate actions:

• Clean the bite site with soap and water
• Put a wet, cold cloth, or an ice pack on the bite site
• Seek urgent medical attention, and bring the spider with you to help with identification, when possible

First aid administration:

• The First Aid for Brazilian Wandering Spider Bites includes cleaning the bite area and seeking medical attention

Who Should Administer First Aid for Brazilian Wandering Spider Bite?

• First aid for Brazilian Wandering Spider Bites should be administered by someone who is trained in providing first aid, such as a medical professional, a paramedic, or a trained first-aider
• If there is no one available with appropriate training, attempt to apply the pressure immobilization bandage and seek urgent medical attention

What is the Prognosis of Brazilian Wandering Spider Bite?

The prognosis for Brazilian Wandering Spider Bites depends on the severity of the symptoms and the timing of the treatment.

• If prompt medical attention is given, most patients can recover fully without any long-term effects
• However, delayed or inadequate treatment can lead to serious complications and even death

Long-term effects:

• There are generally no long-term effects of Brazilian Wandering Spider Bites if prompt medical attention is given
• However, in rare cases, patients may develop allergic reactions or experience chronic pain, muscle weakness, or other symptoms that persist long after the bite

How can Brazilian Wandering Spider Bite be Prevented?

A few helpful tips to prevent Brazilian Wandering Spider Bites include:

• Wear shoes and gloves when working in the garden or bush
• Check bedding and clothing before use, especially when stored in dark and cool areas
• Keep the house and garden free from clutter, including piles of rocks, leaves, and wood
• Install screens on doors and windows to prevent spiders from entering the house
• Use insecticides and spider repellents

What are certain Crucial Steps to be followed?

• If you live in areas where Brazilian wandering spiders are prevalent, it is essential to take necessary precautions to prevent being bitten.
• Learn how to identify Brazilian wandering spiders and their habitats to avoid them.
• If you suspect that you have been bitten by a Brazilian wandering spider, follow the immediate actions and first aid administration guidelines outlined above.
• Seek urgent medical attention, and bring the spider with you to help with identification.
• Do not attempt to catch or handle the spider, as this can increase the risk of being bitten.

In conclusion, Brazilian wandering spiders are a potentially deadly species of spider found in South and Central America. If you suspect that you have been bitten by a Brazilian wandering spider, it is crucial to seek urgent medical attention as soon as possible. Prevention is key to avoid being bitten, so take necessary precautions to keep yourself and your family safe from these dangerous spiders.

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Brazilian Wandering Spider Facts: What Happens If It Bites You?

Brazilian wandering spiders belong to the genus Phoneutria  and are represented by eight spider species that are native to Central America and South America. This spider group is also collectively known as armed spiders and banana spiders. In Brazil, they are locally known as "aranha armadeira" which means armed spider. With these, some people often wonder if a person can survive after being by a member or species of this group.

What is a Brazilian Wandering Spider?

The genus Phoneutria , which the Brazilian wandering spider  and related spider species belong to, was first described in 1833 when two species was included on it. The following century saw various scientists to move the Phoneutria species between genera Phoneutria  and Ctenus . In 1936, Mello-Leitao restored Phoneutria  and currently contains eight species, as reported by the University of Florida.

Banana spiders, a name given to the arachnid group due to their frequent presence on banana leaves, are large and robust arachnids in the family Ctenidae .   They resemble the morphological appearance of wolf spiders. In addition, their body length can grow ranging from 17 and 48 millimeters and their leg span can reach 180 millimeters. Their distinct color ranges from light brown, brown, or grey. Furthermore, the natural habitats of armed spiders are forests.

Also Read:   Deadly Erection-Giving Spider Crawls Out of Banana In Bristol

What Happens If It Bites You?

The natural prey of Brazilian wandering spiders includes small animals like crickets, mantids, and katydids, and larger ones like bats, frogs, and lizards. However, they can still bite humans and other animals not native in their habitats. In the past, scientists have identified that the bite of banana spiders living in Central and South American rain forests can lead to shortness of breath and excessive salivation.

According to wildlife experts, a Brazilian wandering spider bite can also lead to other serious symptoms, including increased blood pressure, above-normal pulse, and unusual respiratory rate, as well as extreme pain, hours-long penile erection, and death, in some cases. These spiders inject neurotoxin venom to its bitten victim and can be deadly to humans, particularly for children. However, it is not the world's deadliest spider.

Venomous Spider

In a study published in the journal Frontiers  in February 2023, researchers stated that the Brazilian wandering spider is amongst the world's most dangerous venomous spiders in the world. In Brazil, there have been an estimated 4,000 envenomation accidents of Phoneutria nigriventer  spider species each year in Brazil. Additional symptoms were also observed, including blurred vision, priapism, and vomiting.

The armed spider only follows the world's most venomous spider, which according to the Guinness World Records , is the Sydney funnel-web spider ( Atrax robustus ).

Like the Brazilian wandering spider, the venom of A. robustus  can be neutralized by anti-venoms but some cases still lead to deaths when these arachnids bite a human, who did not receive any medical attention. Experts also weigh that the mortality of venom depends on the amount that enters a human body.

Related Article:   Arachnophobia Nightmare: Giant Spider Found Inside Banana Box at Grocery Store in Germany

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Brazilian Wandering Spider

The Brazilian Wandering Spider (Phoneutria fera) is an aggressive and highly venomous spider . It was first discovered in Brazil hence its name. However, this genus is known to exist elsewhere in South and Central America .

The Brazilian Wandering spider is a member of the Ctenidae family of wandering spiders.

The Brazilian Wandering spider appeared in the Guinness Book of World Records 2007 for being the most venomous animal .

In this particular genus, there are five known similar species whose members are also highly venomous. They include some of the relatively few species of spiders that present a threat to human beings.

Brazilian Wandering Spider Characteristics

The Brazilian wandering spider can grow to have a leg span of up to 4 – 5 inches. They are large hairy spindly-looking spiders who have eight eyes, two of which are large. Brazilian wandering spiders are fast-moving spiders, their legs are strong and spiny and they have distinctive red jaws which they display when angered.

The Brazilian wandering spider is not a Tarantula . Brazilian wandering spiders are not even in the same family group. Tarantulas are harmless to humans and are mostly ambush killers who wait for prey to come to them. Brazilian wandering spiders are active hunters. Brazilian wandering spiders and Tarantulas do have one thing in common, however, they do not eat bananas.

Brazilian Wandering Spider Habitat and Spider Webs

The Brazilian Wandering spider is so-called because it wanders the jungle floor, rather than residing in a lair or maintaining a web. This is another reason it is considered so dangerous. In densely populated areas, the Brazilian Wandering spider will usually search for cover and dark places to hide during daytime, leading it to hide within houses, clothes, cars, boots, boxes and log piles. This usually causes accidents when people disturb them.

The Brazilian Wandering spider is also called the ‘banana spider’ as it is occasionally found within shipments of bananas. As a result, any large spider appearing in a bunch of bananas should be treated with due care.

Brazilian Wandering Spider Diet

Adult Brazilian Wandering spiders eat crickets, other large insects, small lizards and mice. Spiderlings of this species eat flightless fruit flies and pinhead crickets.

Brazilian Wandering Spider Reproduction

All spiders produce silk, a thin, strong protein strand extruded by the spider from spinnerets most commonly found on the end of the abdomen. Many species use it to trap insects in webs, although there are many species that hunt freely such as the Brazilian Wandering spider. Silk can be used to aid in climbing, form smooth walls for burrows, build egg sacs, wrap prey and temporarily hold sperm, among other applications.

Brazilian Wandering spiders reproduce by means of eggs, which are packed into silk bundles called egg sacs. The male spider must (in most cases) make a timely departure after mating to escape before the females normal predatory instincts return.

Mature male spiders have swollen bulbs on the end of their palps for this purpose and this is a useful way to identify whether the spider is male or female. Once the sperm is inside the female spider, she stores it in a chamber and only uses it during the egg-laying process, when the eggs come into contact with the male sperm for the first time and are fertilized. The Brazilian Wandering spiders life cycle is 1 – 2 years.

Brazilian Wandering Spider Venom

Bites from the Brazilian Wandering spider may result in only a couple of painful pinpricks to full-blown envenomed. In either case, people bitten by this spider or any Ctenid should seek immediate emergency treatment as the venom is possibly life threatening.

The Phoneutria fera and Phoneutria nigriventer (two species of wandering spider) are the two most commonly implicated as the most vicious and deadly of the Phoneutria spiders.

The Phoneutria not only has a potent neurotoxin, but is reported to have one of the most excruciatingly painful envenoms of all spiders due to its high concentration of serotonin. They have the most active venom of any living spiders.

One of their members, the Brazilian Huntsman, is thought to be the most venomous spider in the world. Brazilian wandering spiders are certainly dangerous and bite more people than any other spiders.

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Do Brazilian Wandering Spiders Bite?

Yes, the Brazilian Wandering Spider does bite. This arachnid species is known for its aggression and is considered one of the most poisonous spiders in the world.

A bite can cause severe medical conditions including intense pain, loss of muscle control, and difficulty breathing, although antivenom is available for treatment.

Can Brazilian Wandering Spider Bite Through Clothes?

Brazilian Wandering Spiders possess strong, potent fangs that are capable of biting through some lightweight or thin materials, which may potentially include certain types of clothing.

However, the likelihood of a bite penetrating thicker fabrics is less probable. Thus, while possible, it's not guaranteed that a bite would be able to penetrate all clothing materials.

Do Brazilian Wandering Spider Bites Hurt?

Furthermore, if not treated promptly, the spider's venom can cause more severe symptoms, including sweating, high blood pressure, and even heart problems. It's important to seek medical help immediately after a bite.

FAQs about Brazilian Wandering Spider Bites

1. do brazilian wandering spiders bite or sting.

Yes, Brazilian Wandering Spiders do bite, they do not sting.

2. Do Brazilian Wandering Spiders bite humans?

Brazilian Wandering Spiders do bite humans.

3. Are Brazilian Wandering Spider bites dangerous?

Yes, Brazilian Wandering Spider bites are dangerous. They are considered to be one of the most venomous spiders in the world.

4. What happens if a Brazilian Wandering Spider bites you?

If a Brazilian Wandering Spider bites you, you may initially experience severe pain and swelling, followed by other symptoms such as sweating, high or low blood pressure, tachycardia, and blurred vision. If untreated, the venom can be life-threatening.

Also check:

Other Bugs' Bites

Check information about other bugs and learn if they bite or not and what you should do in case they bite.

Brazilian Wandering Spider Profile

Check the profile of Brazilian Wandering Spider and learn more interesting information about them.

Fact Animal

Facts About Animals

Brazilian Wandering Spider Facts

Brazilian wandering spider profile.

There are more than 50,000 species of spider, and the vast majority are less dangerous than a honeybee. Almost none are aggressive, and of those with medically significant venom, only a small percentage are capable of causing death. So, on the whole, arachnophobes are just being a bit silly.

But there’s one spider that vindicates all of these fears, and few animals are as globally renowned to be a serious threat to human lives as the Brazilian Wandering Spider .

Brazilian Wandering Spiders are actually 9 species of spider in the same genus ‘Phoneutria’, one of which is found in Central America, with the rest in South America.

Brazilian Wandering Spider Facts Overview

These spiders are called wandering spiders because of instead of spinning a web to wait for food, or occupying a lair, they spend their night wandering in the leaf litter of the jungle floor for prey.

The sensitive hairs on its body help detect vibrations of passing prey, and it will feed on insects, lizards, frogs and any animals as large as itself.

During the day they will hide under logs, rocks, or inside termite mounds and banana plants. They will also sometimes wander into urban areas and homes, where they can come into contact with humans.

Brazilian wandering spiders are aggressive , dangerous and frightening. For once, this is an animal you should be wary of.

The females are larger, around 50% heavier than males, and produce more venom, and this might be a clue as to why their Greek name translates to “ Mudress” . These spiders will often stand and fight and have an intimidating threat display.

The potency of their venom is one of the reasons they’re so dangerous, and their ability to hide away in fruit and shoes explains why most bites are on extremities.

Interesting Brazilian Wandering Spider Facts

1. armed spiders.

In Brazilian, these are sometimes known as armed spiders, on account of their elongated front legs.

They can convey quite a bit of information with these legs, and as wandering spiders, use them to get about the forest, looking for food.

2. Banana Spiders

They’re also sometimes called ‘banana spiders’ on account of their status as a stowaway on popular fruit imported from the tropics.

This is becoming less common as stricter regulations ensure there’s less contamination of fruits, but there’s always a chance your next bunch of bananas will have a family of these spiders living inside it.

3. They have the largest venom glands of any spider

Females produce more venom than males, but both sexes have enormous venom glands. These glands are even more impressive when you consider the size of the spider is significantly less than the largest around.

The venom glands of the Brazilian Wandering Spider are over a centimetre long, and this is all housed inside the bright red chelicerae (mouth parts) which they are quick to display whenever they get upset. 1

4. They’re aggressive

These spiders can grow quite large and have long, brightly-coloured legs. Unlike most spiders, they’re known to stand their ground when threatened and are far quicker to bite than many other species.

They’ll still try to scurry away where possible, and they’re not out to get anybody.

But where most other species will flee, the wandering spiders’ aggression does make it more likely to be involved in incidents.

Most bites are on fingers and toes, a sign that they’re being stepped on or grabbed inadvertently. When the spider feels cornered, it’ll rear up on its back legs and waves its colourful arms around as a warning.

Then it’ll sway side to side, beckoning you to have a go. Anything foolhardy enough to call this bluff gets a wealth of envenomation effects. 2 3

5. They give some men erections

There are ways to accomplish this with fewer side effects, but a bit from a Brazilian wandering spider does come with a certain Viagral quality.

This isn’t as fun as it might sound. Prolonged erections in this manner are likely to harm and destroy muscles and blood vessels in the penis and could cause irreparable damage.

Besides this, the assault on the central nervous system that comes with envenomation by this spider doesn’t sound worth it. 4

6. And some people die

This assault brings with it a whole host of unpleasant symptoms. Seizures, foaming at the mouth, inability to speak, collapse, and a host of other miserable experiences.

Paralysis is possible, as is cardiac shock. Blood vessels can burst in the brain, or anywhere else, and in many cases, this can be enough to kill a person.

This spider has one of the most potent venoms of all, and there are multiple legitimate records of death as a result of bites.

7. But they’re rarely fatal

While the Brazilian wandering spider is potentially one of the most dangerous spiders in the world, there is some evidence to suggest it gives a dry bite, defensively.

This means that despite exceptionally toxic venom, the amount actually injected is less than some of the other contenders, and this is what makes it typically less lethal than the Australian funnel webs.

These spiders are classified as Dangerous Wild Animals and would therefore require a special permit to keep. Bites from wandering spiders are common in South America, but antivenom is often readily available, and they rarely result in death.

In most cases, lethal bites are cases of a very young or very old victim, and few people of healthy age are killed. 5

8. They do invade the UK sometimes

These unquestionably scary spiders show up in supermarkets in the UK on occasion, having hitched a ride on banana shipments.

On more than one occasion they’ve made their way into shoppers’ homes, but it doesn’t appear that there are any cases of them biting people as a result.

These spiders aren’t suited for temperate climates and don’t survive Winter, so there’s no risk of them multiplying.

Brazilian Wandering Spider Fact-File Summary

Scientific classification, fact sources & references.

• PeerJ. (2017), “ Dimensions of venom gland of largest venom glands in all spiders ”, Bio Numbers.
• Dave Clarke (2010), “ Venomous spider found in Waitrose shopping ‘beautiful but aggressive’” , The Guardian.
• “ Phoneutria Perty (Arachnida: Araneae: Ctenidae) ”, UF-IFAS University of Florida
• Kátia R.M. Leite (2012), “ Phoneutria nigriventer spider toxin Tx2-6 causes priapism and death: A histopathological investigation in mice ”, Science Direct.
• “ Brazilian wandering spiders: Bites & other facts ”, Live Science.

Spider Bite Treatment

Spider Bite Symptoms, Diagnosis & Treatment

Brazilian Wandering Spider

The Brazilian wandering spider is an active hunter mainly found in South America and Central America. Unlike like most other spiders, it doesn’t weave and live in webs. Instead, it spends its life wandering on the ground (hence the name) hunting for small animals.

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If this the first time you are hearing about the Brazilian wandering spider and you see its photo, we’re guessing that one of the first things that come to your mind is if the Brazilian wandering spider is poisonous or not.

Some spiders carry venom that can cause paralysis, nausea, vomiting and even death to their victims. Some spiders are hunters and don’t live weaving their own web. Others can also jump from one place to another. These are  interesting characteristics that spiders possess which people must be aware of.

Known By Other Names

The Brazilian wandering spider, also known as the armed spider, is an active hunter mainly found in South America and Central America. It is mostly found in forest because it hides and lives in dark, moist places. It can be found in logs, boxes, or in even in the folds of old clothes and shoes.

Unlike like most other spiders, it doesn’t weave and live in webs. Instead, it spends its life wandering on the ground hunting for crickets, lizard, mice, and other small animals.

The Brazilian wandering spider is sometimes mistaken for a tarantula because it is hairy and huge. It measures about one inch long with a leg span of up to five inches. Its colors are mostly yellow-brown with large stripes.

This spider attacks when it feels threatened, so take cover when you see its bodies lifted into an erect position with its frontal legs high up in the air. It does that when it is ready to strike.

A Very Poisonous Spider

The Guinness Book of World Records name the Brazilian wandering spider as the most poisonous spider in the world . Its bite is extremely painful because of its large fangs. Its venom contains toxins that can cause difficulty in breathing, loss or muscle control and even death. It is also known that the Brazilian wandering spider venom can also cause prolonged erection that can damage the penis of its male victims and now scientist are studying them to find a cure for erectile dysfunction.

First aid for a Brazilian wandering spider bite

When a person is bitten by a Brazilian wandering spider, don’t panic and give first aid remedy to spider bite:

• If one is bitten by this spider, have the victim lie down and be calm as possible to prevent the toxin from spreading rapidly throughout the victim’s body.
• It can also help to slow down the toxin by applying pressure (for example, putting a bandage) to the bitten area.
• Clean the wound with soap and water.
• Call the doctor immediately. If not treated or given anti-venom, the spider bite can cause death or serious injury to the victim.

So the next time you go camping in a forest, cleaning your house or even opening a box or banana bunches, be on the lookout for Brazilian wandering spiders. Be prepared with bandages including your doctor’s numbers and some anti-venom when someone you know is bitten by them.

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Brazilian Wandering Spider Bite

Published: June 2, 2023

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Are you aware that the Brazilian wandering spider is among the most venomous spiders globally? In this article, we will go into further detail about the Brazilian Wandering Spider Bite.

This innocuous-looking arachnid has a bite that can cause intense pain and other serious symptoms, such as paralysis, difficulty breathing, and even death. 

Despite its reputation, however, with prompt medical treatment, most bites from this species are rarely life-threatening. 

Let’s explore what causes a Brazilian wandering spider bite and how you can treat one if unfortunate enough to experience it.

Want to jump ahead? Click below

What Is A Brazilian Wandering Spider, And Why Is It Dangerous

Due to its potent venom , the Brazilian Wandering Spider, also called the Armed Spider or Banana Spider , is widely acknowledged as one of the world’s most dangerous spiders. This spider can be found in several South American countries and is known for wandering into areas inhabited by humans. It can climb walls and hide in clothes, shoes, and beds. 

In addition, the toxin can cause long-lasting painful erections if not treated promptly, which makes it especially dangerous to male victims. The spider’s venom is incredibly powerful, and even one bite can be fatal to a human within a few hours. 

In the event of encountering a Brazilian Wandering Spider in its natural habitat or within your residence, it is advisable to seek assistance from a trained expert at the earliest convenience.

Symptoms Of A Brazilian Wandering Spider Bite

Symptoms caused by the venom of the Brazilian Wandering Spider can vary from mild to severe and may depend on factors such as the spider’s size , the amount of venom injected, and the victim’s age and health. 

Below are some common symptoms of a Brazilian Wandering Spider bite:

• Pain At The Bite Site

Being bitten by a Brazilian Wandering Spider may result in discomfort and a sensation of burning or stinging in the area of the bite. The pain can spread to other body parts, accompanied by swelling and redness.

• Neurological Symptoms

A Brazilian Wandering Spider’s venom comprises a neurotoxin capable of influencing the nervous system and brain. Victims may experience muscle weakness, tremors, convulsions, and difficulty speaking or breathing.

In critical situations, the venom can induce paralysis, which may result in respiratory failure and fatality.

• Sexual Dysfunction

The venom of a Brazilian Wandering Spider can cause priapism, a prolonged and painful erection in males.

If left untreated, priapism can cause irreversible damage to the penis and may persist for several hours. Female victims may experience swelling and inflammation in the genital area.

• Gastrointestinal Symptoms

Brazilian Wandering Spider bites can cause nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.

Victims may experience abdominal pain and cramping.

• Cardiovascular Symptoms

In addition to neurological symptoms, the venom of a Brazilian Wandering Spider can affect the heart and cardiovascular system. Victims may experience an irregular heartbeat, high blood pressure, and chest pain.

Prompt medical attention is crucial and should be sought without delay if you suspect a Brazilian Wandering Spider has bitten you, as the venom can be deadly. Treatment may include antivenom, pain medication, and oxygen therapy.

Prompt Remedies For A Bite By A Brazilian Wandering Spider

The Brazilian Wandering Spider is one of the deadliest spiders in the world, and its venom can cause severe muscle paralysis and respiratory failure, ultimately leading to death. It is vital to promptly seek medical assistance if a Brazilian Wandering Spider has bitten you. 

Before seeking medical assistance, there are some measures you can take to alleviate the venom’s impact.

Keeping calm and avoiding panicking if a Brazilian Wandering Spider has bitten you is vital. Panicking can cause an increased heart rate, which can then spread toxins throughout your body at a faster pace.

Elevate The Affected Area & Apply Cold Compress

Elevating the affected area above the level of your heart can help slow down the spread of venom in your bloodstream. Administering a cold compress to the site of the bite can also aid in relieving pain and diminishing inflammation.

Clean The Bite Wound Immediately

Use sterile saline or clean water to clean the bite wound immediately and thoroughly. It will help to remove any venom residue from the wound and lower the risk of infection.

Avoid applying suction to the bite wound, as this can worsen the venom’s spread within your body.

Without Any Delay, Obtain Medical Attention  

Promptly seeking medical attention is critical. A neurotoxin present in the venom of the Brazilian Wandering Spider can cause muscle paralysis, which may result in respiratory failure and fatality after being bitten by a wandering Brazilian spider. 

The sole effective treatment for this type of spider bite is antivenom therapy. Seek medical assistance immediately if you experience dizziness, shortness of breath, difficulty swallowing, or muscle paralysis.

The Brazilian Wandering Spider’s venom is lethal, and the best course of action if you encounter this spider is to leave it alone and seek professional help immediately. 

Follow the immediate treatment recommendations listed above to help mitigate the effects of venom, but always seek medical care as soon as possible.

Check out The world’s most dangerous spiders .

Long-Term Effects Of A Brazilian Wandering Spider Bite

The Brazilian Wandering Spider, also recognized as the Banana Spider, is among the most venomous spiders globally. The gravity of the envenomation can have considerable, long-lasting implications on an individual’s health. Typical indications of a wandering spider bite include intense pain, swelling, sweating, and muscle spasms. 

However, the venom can also affect the respiratory and cardiovascular systems, leading to difficulty breathing, high blood pressure, and even heart failure. In rare cases, neurological disorders such as paralysis may also occur. 

Due to these potentially life-threatening long-term effects, it is crucial to seek immediate medical attention if you suspect a wandering spider has bitten you.

Prevention Tips To Avoid Encountering A Brazilian Wandering Spider

The Brazilian Wandering Spider , also known as the banana spider, is one of the deadliest spiders in the world. These spiders are typically found in South and Central America and are known for their venomous bite. It’s important to take preventative measures. 

To avoid encountering this dangerous spider, be cautious when unpacking boxes or clothes that have been stored for a long time, as these are common hiding spots for spiders. 

Additionally, it’s important to regularly clean and dust your home, as clutter can attract these spiders. Lastly, shake any clothes or shoes before wearing them, especially if left on the ground. 

Following these simple tips can greatly reduce the risk of encountering a Brazilian Wandering Spider and protect yourself from its harmful bite.

Pest Control Solutions In The Event Of An Infestation

Dealing with a pest infestation is no easy task, especially when it comes to a spider known for its deadly venom – the Brazilian wandering spider. 

These spiders are found in Central and South America and can cause serious harm if they bite. If you suspect an infestation, it is essential to seek professional pest control solutions immediately. 

Experienced pest control specialists can detect the infestation source and administer safe and effective treatment methods for you and your family. It is crucial to take this hazard seriously and avoid handling it alone. Protect yourself and your loved ones by entrusting the task to experts.

Check out Brazilian Wandering Spider Control: How To Get Rid of Brazilian Wandering Spiders .

Wrapping Up with Brazilian Wandering Spider Bite

In conclusion, the Brazilian wandering spider is a real danger to be aware of when you are out and about, whether in your own country or traveling abroad. Even though its bite can be deadly, with prompt and appropriate medical treatment, most bites rarely result in lasting harm. To prevent these bites from occurring in the first place, it helps to educate yourself on what they look like and how to identify them. 

We can all stay safe outdoors by learning more about this species and taking necessary precautions to visit safely. If ever bitten by one of these arachnids, seek medical help right away and inform your healthcare provider so they can provide a proper antidote or treatment. 

Keeping informed and aware of what lurks around us is better than being fooled by their innocent appearance!

Thanks for following along with me! I hope you enjoyed reading about these two entertaining animals . Next is Understanding The Inland Taipan Bite , Venomous Deathstalker Scorpion Sting , and Surviving A Gaboon Viper Bite .

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How to Identify a Brazilian Wandering Spider

Last Updated: February 12, 2021 Approved

This article was co-authored by wikiHow Staff . Our trained team of editors and researchers validate articles for accuracy and comprehensiveness. wikiHow's Content Management Team carefully monitors the work from our editorial staff to ensure that each article is backed by trusted research and meets our high quality standards. There are 8 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. wikiHow marks an article as reader-approved once it receives enough positive feedback. In this case, 93% of readers who voted found the article helpful, earning it our reader-approved status. This article has been viewed 133,493 times.

The Brazilian wandering spider is a large, hairy spider that lives in South and Central America. It’s considered the most venomous spider in the world. Since these spiders sometimes wander right into towns, cities, and shipments of fruit, it’s important to be able to recognize this spider and know its habitat. If you happen to be bitten, you should get immediate medical attention. Don’t panic, however! These bites can almost always be treated.

Recognizing a Brazilian Wandering Spider

• Some spiders may be more yellowish than brown. Others may appear to have black legs, or black bands on brown legs. [3] X Research source

• Do not try to trap this spider. Call animal control professionals if you think you have one in your home or outdoor buildings, and leave those buildings while you wait for help.

Being Aware of Their Habitats

• Small, unlit closets or nooks in homes
• Outdoor sheds and garages
• Unused clothes, shoes, or gloves
• Boxes of food in pantries
• Boxes in attics or garages

Avoiding a Bite

• If a spider falls out, don’t panic. Back away slowly and leave the area.

• You can also spray bug and spider repellant around doors and windows to ward off creepy crawlies.

Treating a Bite

• In men, these bites can also cause a long and painful erection.

Community Q&A

• Keep in mind that these spiders prefer to wander along the ground. Always wear sturdy shoes if you are in an area where these spiders are known to live. Thanks Helpful 2 Not Helpful 0
• These spiders are highly dangerous and should not be approached or provoked unless you are an expert such as an entomologist. They are recognized as one of the most dangerous spiders in the world and are the most venomous so they should always be treated with care and respect. Thanks Helpful 2 Not Helpful 0
• Children are more susceptible than adults to the venom of a Brazilian wandering spider, and you should ensure that any child who’s bitten gets medical attention as quickly as possible. Thanks Helpful 6 Not Helpful 0

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• ↑ https://www.livescience.com/41591-brazilian-wandering-spiders.html
• ↑ http://www.wandering-spiders.net/phoneutria/gallery/
• ↑ https://animalcorner.co.uk/animals/brazilian-wandering-spider/
• ↑ http://bioweb.uwlax.edu/bio203/s2013/johnson_jor4/habitat.htm
• ↑ http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/spider-bites/manage/ptc-20204189
• ↑ https://www.livescience.com/37974-he-surprising-cause-of-most-spider-bites.html
• ↑ http://www.mayoclinic.org/first-aid/first-aid-spider-bites/basics/art-20056618
• ↑ http://www.webmd.com/first-aid/snakebite-treatment

About this article

To identify a Brazilian wandering spider, look for a spider with a long leg span of about 6 inches and a brown, hairy body. Also, carefully examine the spider from afar to see if it has large red fangs, which are common in Brazilian wandering spiders. Keep in mind that Brazilian wandering spiders only live in South and Central America. If you encounter one, move away slowly since Brazilian wandering spiders are aggressive and very poisonous. To learn how to avoid getting bitten by a Brazilian wandering spider, scroll down! Did this summary help you? Yes No

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Brazilian Wandering Spider

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The Brazilian Wandering Spider is a species of aggressive animal in Green Hell added in the animal update V.0.2.0

• 1 Basic Info
• 4 References
• 6 Update History

Basic Info [ | ]

The Brazilian Wandering Spider can be mainly found on the forest floor near banana trees . They are a lot smaller than the goliath birdeater spider which makes them very difficult to find.

When the player is in close proximity to a Brazilian wandering spider they will be able to hear a loud scratching noise. When bitten by a Brazilian Wandering Spider the player will receive a venom wound and fever.

Harvest [ | ]

The Brazilian Wandering Spider can be harvested by catching it in a Cage Trap or Stone Trap .

It can be cooked on a fire and eaten for 4 Protein and -5 Sanity.

It is usable as a bait in Traps.

Trivia [ | ]

This is the second spider to be added to the game.

References [ | ]

For information pertaining specifically to the real-world Brazilian Wandering Spider, see the relevant Wikipedia article

Gallery [ | ]

The Brazilian walking spider for size reference

Update History [ | ]

• 3 Locations