Wandering Spiders: The Venomous Arachnids of South America
Distribution and Species
The genus Phoneutria, also known as wandering spiders, comprises nine species native primarily to northern South America. However, one species extends its range into Central America. Within Brazil, all nine species are nocturnal, venomous, and known as "aranhas-armadeiras" (armed spiders).
Physical Characteristics
Wandering spiders are renowned for their distinctive appearance. They possess long, spiny legs that provide swift movement and agility. Their jaws, when exposed in a defensive posture, display a vibrant red coloration. This display serves as a warning signal to potential threats.
Medically Significant Species: Phoneutria nigriventer
Among the nine Phoneutria species, P. nigriventer poses the greatest medical significance. Found in the Southern Cone of South America, including Brazil, Uruguay, and Argentina, this spider's venom can cause a range of systemic symptoms, including intense pain, muscle weakness, and respiratory distress.
Family: Ctenidae
Wandering spiders belong to the family Ctenidae, which includes numerous spider species distinguished by their longitudinal markings on the cephalothorax (head and thorax region).
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