For the be crazy are common living creatures and widespread throughout the world. Although around 43,000 species of spiders are known, it’s important to note that not all of them are venomous. Some of these are poisonous.
Of the numerous species that exist, only about 25 are known to have caused severe harm or even death in humans.
However, it’s important to note that the definition of “deadliest spider” can vary depending on various factors, such as the severity of toxic reactions and the availability of appropriate medical treatments.
The most venomous spiders in the world
Spiders commonly cited as a cause of death or serious injury in humans include funnelweb spiders (Atrax), red and black widow spiders (Latrodectus), banana and wandering spiders (Phoneutria), and recluse spiders (Loxosceles).
Funnel Web Spider / Photo: Canva
These species have received more attention due to the toxic effects their venoms can cause in humans.
Although these spiders have powerful venoms and suitable structures to penetrate the skin, it must be emphasized that they do not pose a great threat to humans.
In fact, according to the American Association of Poison Control Centers (AAPCC), there was only one reported death from a spider bite in the United States in 2021.
Additionally, no deaths from spider bites have been reported in Australia, home to some of the world’s most venomous spiders, since the 1980s. This data shows that encounters with venomous spiders and serious incidents are rare occurrences.
Still, it’s always important to be alert and take precautions when dealing with potentially dangerous spiders.
Rick Vetter, a retired research associate in the University of California, Riverside’s Department of Entomology whose work focuses on medically relevant spiders, said that a fatal encounter with a spider is extremely rare.
He stressed that if spiders are a person’s greatest concern in the face of all of life’s adversities, then that person is living a good life.
His words reinforce the idea that serious incidents involving spiders are extremely rare and that most people don’t need to worry too much about them.