World's Top 10 Deadliest Spiders

26th February, 2024

CHIRANJIT MITRA

Found in Australia, this spider's venom is highly toxic to humans. Bites can cause severe symptoms, and fatalities have been recorded, though an antivenom exists.

Sydney Funnel-Web Spider (Atrax robustus)

Brazilian Wandering Spider (Phoneutria species)

Also known as the banana spider, this South American native is highly aggressive.  Its venom is a potent neurotoxin, and bites can cause intense pain, paralysis, and potentially death.

Brown Recluse Spider (Loxosceles reclusa)

Found in North America, the brown recluse's venom causes tissue necrosis (tissue death around the bite site). Severe bites can lead to significant, gruesome wounds and systemic illness.

Redback Spider (Latrodectus hasselti)

Australia's answer to the black widow, the redback, has potent venom causing severe pain. While deaths are rare, young children and the elderly are more vulnerable to its venom.

Black Widow Spiders (Latrodectus species)

Found worldwide, black widows (and related species) have venom that attacks the nervous system. Bites cause severe pain and cramping and can be dangerous for children and the health-compromised.

Mouse Spider (Missulena species)

Australian mouse spiders are closely related to funnel-webs, with similarly potent venom. While less aggressive, their bites can cause severe symptoms and require medical attention.

Native to Southern Africa, its sand-colored body makes it almost invisible. The venom of this spider causes tissue necrosis and potentially organ failure.

Six-Eyed Sand Spider (Sicarius hahni)

The most dangerous recluse species is found in South America. Its venom is more potent than other recluse spiders, causing severe necrosis and sometimes fatal complications.

Chilean Recluse Spider (Loxosceles laeta)

Found worldwide, yellow sac spiders can deliver painful bites, causing some necrosis. Though usually not life-threatening, severe reactions can occur, especially in children.

Yellow Sac Spider (Cheiracanthium inclusum)

While primarily a tarantula, this Asian species is large and has a powerful, painful bite. Its venom causes severe localized pain and swelling and can induce hospitalization in some cases.

Chinese Bird Spider (Haplopelma hainanum)