Spiders are fascinating creatures that come in a wide range of colors and patterns. Among them, some species showcase a stunning hue of purple that captivates the eyes of those lucky enough to spot them. In this blog post, we’ll introduce you to nine vivid purple spiders worldwide. From their striking appearances to unique characteristics, these arachnids are a treat for any nature enthusiast. So, let’s delve into the world of these mesmerizing purple spiders and learn more about their intriguing features.
Did you know that some spiders possess a unique and mind-blowing hunting technique that has earned them the nickname “assassin spiders”? The assassin spiders, also known as pelican spiders or Archaeidae, are a group of arachnids with fascinating hunting strategies. Unlike most spiders that use webs to catch their prey, these skilled predators have evolved long necks and enlarged, curved chelicerae (mouthparts) that resemble the beak of a pelican. When hunting, assassin spiders use their elongated necks to reach out and strike their victims with incredible speed and precision. Once the prey is immobilized, they inject venom to subdue it. Their stealthy approach and deadly hunting tactics make assassin spiders one of the most captivating and formidable arachnids in the animal kingdom. These tiny assassins provide a remarkable example of the diversity and complexity of strategies that have evolved within the world of spiders.
1. The Purple Jumping Spider (Hasarius adansoni):
The Purple Jumping Spider is a small and agile arachnid famous for its vibrant purple coloring and remarkable jumping abilities.
| Attribute | Information |
|---|---|
| Common Name | Purple Jumping Spider |
| Scientific Name | Hasarius adansoni |
| Where Found | India, Southeast Asia, and nearby regions |
| Life Span | Up to 1 year |
| Diet | Insects, including other spiders |
| Social Structure | Solitary, except during mating season |
| Identification | Compact body with purple and metallic sheen |
Unique facts about the Purple Jumping Spider:
- These spiders have excellent vision, allowing them to accurately judge distances before making impressive leaps.
- Despite their small size, they are bold hunters and can take down prey much larger than themselves.
- Male Purple Jumping Spiders use intricate dance moves to court females during mating rituals.
2. The Brazilian Wandering Spider (Phoneutria):
The Brazilian Wandering Spider, also known as the Banana Spider, boasts a stunning purple hue among other color variations.
| Attribute | Information |
|---|---|
| Common Name | Brazilian Wandering Spider |
| Scientific Name | Phoneutria spp. |
| Where Found | Central and South America |
| Life Span | Up to 3 years |
| Diet | Insects, small vertebrates, and other spiders |
| Social Structure | Mostly solitary |
| Identification | Large size, elongated legs, and striking purple color |
Unique facts about the Brazilian Wandering Spider:
- These spiders are highly venomous, and their bites can be dangerous to humans, although fatalities are rare with proper medical treatment.
- They are nocturnal hunters and rely on their excellent vision and sensory organs to detect prey.
- Brazilian Wandering Spiders are known for their wandering behavior, often found roaming on the ground or climbing trees.
3. The Purple Orb-Weaver Spider (Parawixia bistriata):
The Purple Orb-Weaver Spider is a stunning species with a purple cephalothorax and legs, and an intricate orb-shaped web.
| Attribute | Information |
|---|---|
| Common Name | Purple Orb-Weaver Spider |
| Scientific Name | Parawixia bistriata |
| Where Found | Central and South America |
| Life Span | Several months to a year |
| Diet | Insects, including other spiders |
| Social Structure | Mostly solitary |
| Identification | Purple cephalothorax, legs, and abdomen |
Unique facts about the Purple Orb-Weaver Spider:
- These spiders construct large and intricate orb-shaped webs, where they wait to catch flying insects.
- They are nocturnal creatures, actively hunting during the night and seeking refuge during the day.
- Female Purple Orb-Weavers are often larger than males and exhibit a stunning variation of purple hues.
4. The Purple Ladybird Spider (Eresus kollari):
The Purple Ladybird Spider is a visually striking arachnid, known for its unique appearance, including its purple and red coloration.
| Attribute | Information |
|---|---|
| Common Name | Purple Ladybird Spider |
| Scientific Name | Eresus kollari |
| Where Found | Europe |
| Life Span | Up to 3 years |
| Diet | Insects, small invertebrates |
| Social Structure | Mostly solitary |
| Identification | Small size, purple and red coloration |
Unique facts about the Purple Ladybird Spider:
- Male Purple Ladybird Spiders are much smaller than females and have distinctive white markings on their abdomen.
- They are not true ladybirds but were named for their color pattern, which resembles ladybirds (ladybugs).
- Purple Ladybird Spiders inhabit sandy and dry areas, where they construct burrows as their homes.
5. The Purple Huntsman Spider (Eusparassus dufouri):
The Purple Huntsman Spider is a visually striking arachnid, known for its unique appearance, including its purple and red coloration.
| Attribute | Information |
|---|---|
| Common Name | Purple Huntsman Spider |
| Scientific Name | Eusparassus dufouri |
| Where Found | Middle East, Mediterranean region |
| Life Span | Up to 2 years |
| Diet | Insects, small vertebrates |
| Social Structure | Mostly solitary |
| Identification | Large size, long legs, and purple markings |
Unique facts about the Purple Huntsman Spider:
- These spiders are fast runners and active hunters, preying on a variety of insects and other arthropods.
- Despite their intimidating appearance, they are harmless to humans and are generally non-aggressive.
- The Purple Huntsman Spider constructs retreats or burrows where they rest during the day and venture out to hunt at night.
6. The Purple Crab Spider (Thomisus spectabilis):
The Purple Crab Spider is a tiny arachnid that can change color to match its surroundings, making it an excellent ambush predator.
| Attribute | Information |
|---|---|
| Common Name | Purple Crab Spider |
| Scientific Name | Thomisus spectabilis |
| Where Found | Europe and parts of Asia |
| Life Span | Up to 1 year |
| Diet | Insects, including other spiders |
| Social Structure | Solitary |
| Identification | Small size, purple color with yellow markings |
Unique facts about the Purple Crab Spider:
- These spiders don’t build webs but instead use their strong legs to grab and immobilize their prey.
- Their ability to change color allows them to blend seamlessly into flowers and lie in wait for unsuspecting insects.
- Despite their name, Purple Crab Spiders are not closely related to true crabs but share similar body shapes.
7. The Purple Tarantula (Avicularia purpurea):
The Purple Tarantula is a stunning arachnid found in tropical rainforests with a purple sheen on its carapace and legs.
| Attribute | Information |
|---|---|
| Common Name | Purple Tarantula |
| Scientific Name | Avicularia purpurea |
| Where Found | South America |
| Life Span | Up to 15 years |
| Diet | Insects, small vertebrates, and occasionally small mammals |
| Social Structure | Mostly solitary |
| Identification | Purple carapace and legs |
Unique facts about the Purple Tarantula:
- These arboreal tarantulas are skilled climbers, often found in trees and foliage rather than on the ground.
- Despite their large size and venomous fangs, Purple Tarantulas are relatively docile and prefer to retreat rather than attack when threatened.
- They create silk-lined burrows or nests in tree bark or crevices for protection and molting.
8. The Purple Cobweb Spider (Theridion grallator):
The Purple Cobweb Spider is a small but dazzling arachnid that weaves intricate cobweb structures.
| Attribute | Information |
|---|---|
| Common Name | Purple Cobweb Spider |
| Scientific Name | Theridion grallator |
| Where Found | Hawaii |
| Life Span | Several months |
| Diet | Small insects and arthropods |
| Social Structure | Mostly solitary |
| Identification | Purple abdomen with distinct patterns |
Unique facts about the Purple Cobweb Spider:
- This spider is endemic to Hawaii and plays an essential role in controlling insect populations on the islands.
- They are known for their intricate and sticky cobwebs, where they capture unsuspecting prey.
- Despite their small size, Purple Cobweb Spiders are agile and quick to respond to potential threats.
9. The Purple Trapdoor Spider (Genus Idioctis):
The Purple Trapdoor Spider is a master of camouflage, blending seamlessly with the soil and leaf litter in its habitat.
| Attribute | Information |
|---|---|
| Common Name | Purple Trapdoor Spider |
| Scientific Name | Genus Idioctis |
| Where Found | Australia and nearby regions |
| Life Span | Several years |
| Diet | Insects and other small arthropods |
| Social Structure | Solitary, except during mating season |
| Identification | Purple coloration with robust jaws |
Unique facts about the Purple Trapdoor Spider:
- As the name suggests, these spiders construct trapdoor burrows covered with a hinged door, which they use for ambush hunting.
- They are nocturnal creatures, emerging at night to hunt and retreat to their burrows during the day.
- Purple Trapdoor Spiders are experts at constructing camouflaged burrows, making it challenging to spot them in their natural habitats.
FAQs
What is the cutest spider ever found?
The answer would depend on personal preferences, as cuteness is subjective. Some people may find jumping spiders, like the Peacock Spider (Maratus volans), cute due to their vibrant colors and unique courtship dances.
What is the rarest spider to see?
The Sierra Nevada blue butterfly (Icaricia icarioides) is a rare and beautiful species in the United States. It is endangered and seldom seen due to its declining population.
Are purple tarantulas poisonous?
Like all tarantulas, purple tarantulas have venom that they use to subdue their prey. However, most tarantula bites are not harmful to humans but can cause localized pain and swelling.
What is the most poisonous spider?
The Sydney funnel-web spider (Atrax robustus) and its close relatives are among the most venomous spiders in the world. They are found in Australia and possess potent venom that can be dangerous to humans if bitten. However, antivenom is available, and deaths from their bites are now rare due to prompt medical treatment.
Conclusion:
Encountering a vivid purple spider can be an enchanting experience, as these arachnids showcase nature’s stunning diversity and beauty. From the agile leaps of the Purple Jumping Spider to the stunning coloration of the Brazilian Wandering Spider, each species on this list is a testament to the wonders of the natural world. While some of these spiders may look intimidating, they play essential roles in their ecosystems, contributing to insect control and maintaining the delicate balance of nature. As we continue to explore the fascinating realm of arachnids, let us remember to marvel at the unique and captivating beauty of these vivid purple spiders.