Table of Contents
American Grass Spider
The American grass spider, characterized by its brownish-black color and distinct stripes, is one of Tennessee’s most common arachnids. Unlike other spiders, they don’t rely on webs for prey capture; instead, they utilize silk to catch their prey or swiftly chase it down when triggered.
Southeastern Wandering Spider
The southeastern wandering spider, a notable species in the region, boasts long legs and distinct coloring, varying from light orange to dark brown. Despite their intimidating appearance, they typically avoid confrontation unless provoked, as their bites can lead to infections due to bacteria they carry.
Ravine Trapdoor Spider
Thriving in various areas across Tennessee, the ravine trapdoor spider features a unique disk-shaped abdomen used for burrowing. With venomous properties, it’s essential to refrain from disturbing their habitats to prevent potential attacks.
Furrow Spider
Found in southern United States, including Tennessee, the furrow spider constructs furrows for shelter and uses webs for nocturnal hunting. While their venom may not pose significant risks to humans, caution is advised due to potential bacterial infections from their bites.
Tiger Wolf Spider
Known for its agility and strength, the tiger wolf spider, found predominantly in eastern parts of the United States, including Tennessee, doesn’t rely on webs for prey capture. Its unique coloring and narrow yellow line between the eyes make it easily identifiable.
Spruce-Fir Moss Spider
Endemic to the high elevations of Tennessee’s Appalachian Mountains, the spruce-fir moss spider is among the state’s rarest arachnids. Despite their non-aggressive nature, their bites can transmit harmful bacteria, emphasizing the importance of avoiding contact.
Canopy Jumping Spider
The canopy jumping spider, thriving in various parts of Tennessee, exhibits distinctive features with females reaching up to 16 millimeters and males up to 12 millimeters. Sporting a predominantly black hue, these spiders are adorned with orange hair on their legs and abdomen. Notably, a purple-black marking above their eyes characterizes them. Found near water bodies and wetland areas, these agile spiders are particularly active at night, displaying an ability to leap with precision. Their aggressive nature necessitates caution during encounters, making it advisable to keep a safe distance.
Dark Fishing Spider
In Tennessee, the dark fishing spider, belonging to the nursery web spider family, is commonly found near water bodies. With adult females growing up to 25 millimeters and males measuring around 11 millimeters, these spiders come in various colors, with brown and grey being prevalent, accompanied by dark spots on legs and spines. Operating as active nocturnal hunters, dark fishing spiders do not utilize webs for prey capture. Females, however, construct webs to safeguard their eggs. Known for their swift movement on water surfaces, these spiders can bite if provoked, emphasizing the importance of maintaining distance, especially around water bodies.
Southern Black Widow
The southern black widow, the most venomous spider in Tennessee, belongs to the cobweb spiders’ family. Widely distributed across America, it is more prominent in the southern United States. Adult females can grow up to 13 millimeters, while males are smaller at 6 millimeters. Recognizable by their glossy black appearance and distinct red hourglass-shaped markings on the abdomen, these spiders pose a significant danger. Their venom affects the central nervous system, leading to organ failure, respiratory problems, nausea, and severe muscle aches. Due to their potent venom, encountering and avoiding these spiders is crucial.
Arrowhead Spider
The arrowhead spider, a distinctive species found in various Tennessee habitats, creates triangle-shaped orb webs and is distributed across North America. Females grow up to 14 millimeters, while males are smaller at 6 millimeters. Easily identifiable by their arrowhead-shaped abdomen, the carapace and legs exhibit varying colors based on the region. Typically yellowish, the abdomen can also be white in some instances.
Cellar Spider
The cellar spiders, found in different Tennessee habitats, boast a delicate and elongated appearance. Females can reach up to 13 millimeters, slightly larger than the males. These arachnids are known for their slender physique and distinctive characteristics.
White-Banded Crab Spider
Thriving in diverse parts of Tennessee, the white-banded crab spiders earn their name from their crab-like movements in various directions. Depending on the region, these spiders exhibit different colors, such as yellow or white. Females can grow up to 11 millimeters, while males are smaller at 4 millimeters. Recognizable by a white line below their eyes, their ability to move in all directions makes them adept ambush predators. Unlike traditional web users, they lie in wait before pouncing on prey, showcasing a unique hunting strategy.
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