Aphonopelma

spider genus

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July 20, 2026

Quick Summary

The genus Aphonopelma includes large, hairy spiders commonly known as desert tarantulas. These spiders are native to arid regions of North America, including parts of the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. While they are venomous and can deliver a painful bite, they are not considered dangerous to humans and are not easily provoked.12

Desert tarantulas are reclusive, nocturnal ambush predators that construct burrows. They emerge at night to hunt insects, lizards, and other small animals, using their venomous fangs to subdue prey. Females can live for over 20 years, while males have a much shorter lifespan after reaching sexual maturity. Some species of Aphonopelma are kept as docile pets.13

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tarantula
Major genera and species
…States, species of the genus Aphonopelma can attain a body length up to 5 cm (almost 2 inches) and a leg span up to 12.5 cm (almost 5 inches). The spiders, dark in color and sluggish in movement, have a hairy body and hairy legs. The most common member of…
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…States, species of the genus Aphonopelma can attain a body length up to 5 cm (almost 2 inches) and a leg span up to 12.5 cm (almost 5 inches). The spiders, dark in color and sluggish in movement, have a hairy body and hairy legs. The most common member of…
Read More