Have you ever come across a spider that has a unique star-like shape on its body? If so, then you’ve encountered a star-shaped spider. This term is used to describe any spider that has this distinctive shape, regardless of its species.
In this article, we will be exploring various types of star shaped spiders and what makes them unique.
Joro Spider
One type of star shaped spider that you may encounter is the Joro spider. This is a truly stunning spider.
The web of females may reach several meters in length. Originally from Asia, this species is now becoming common in the US.
The Joro spider has a distinctive appearance, The adult female individual has stripes of yellow and dark blue, with red toward the rear of the abdomen.
The adult female’s body size is 17–25 mm, while the male’s is 7–10 mm.
If you come across a black spider with red spikes, it is likely a Joro spider. This species of spider is known for its black body and long red legs.
Banana Spiders
Another type of star shaped spider is the banana spider, also known as the golden orb-weaver.
These spiders are not considered to be dangerous to humans, but their venom may cause some discomfort such as skin irritation and swelling.
Other Types of Star Shaped Spiders
In addition to the Joro spider and the banana spider, there are several other types of spiders that have a unique star-like appearance.
These include the lobster spider, a type of hunting spider that is known for its quick movements and is often found in wooded areas.
The bunny spider is not a specific species of spider, but is a term used to describe spiders that have long, fluffy legs that resemble the fur of a bunny.
The Dracula spider is a species of orb-weaver spider found in South America that is named after Bram Stoker’s famous vampire, due to its red eyes and spiky appearance.
The Juno spider is another species of orb-weaver spider found in North America that is known for its large size and distinctive yellow markings on its body.
In conclusion, star shaped spiders are real and can refer to any spider that has a unique star-like shape on its body.
Each of these spiders has its own unique features that make it stand out, but they all share the characteristic of having a star-like appearance.
Are Star Spiders Dangerous?
The answer to this question depends on the specific type of star shaped spider.
In general, most species of star shaped spiders are not considered to be dangerous to humans, although some may cause mild discomfort or skin irritation if they bite.
The Joro spider, for example, is not considered to be dangerous to humans, although its venom may cause some discomfort such as skin irritation and swelling.
On the other hand, the banana spider, also known as the golden orb-weaver, has a venom that is potent enough to kill small prey, but it is not considered to be dangerous to humans.
If you come across a spider that you suspect may be dangerous, it is always best to seek professional help. A licensed pest control expert or entomologist can help you identify the spider and determine if it is dangerous or not.
In conclusion, star shaped spiders can be fascinating creatures with unique and distinctive appearances, but it is important to understand that some may be dangerous to humans.
If you encounter a spider that you are unsure of, it is always best to seek professional help.
How to Determine if a Spider is a Star Shaped Spider
There are several key characteristics that you can look for to determine if a spider is a star shaped spider.
Firstly, look at the overall shape of the spider’s body. If it has a distinctive star-like shape, then it is likely a star shaped spider.
Next, look at the legs of the spider. Star shaped spiders often have long, spiky legs that give them a unique and recognizable appearance.
If the spider you have encountered has long, spiky legs, then it is likely a star shaped spider.
It is also important to look at the colour and markings on the spider’s body.
Some species of star shaped spiders have distinctive markings, such as the red spikes on the Joro spider or the yellow markings on the Juno spider.
Finally, you can consult a reference guide or take a picture of the spider and show it to a licensed pest control expert or entomologist, who can help you identify the spider and determine if it is a star shaped spider.
Determining if a spider is a star shaped spider is not always straightforward, but by looking at the overall shape of the body, the legs, the colour and markings, and consulting with a professional, you can get a good idea of what type of spider you have encountered.