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Theraphosa is a genus of spiders belonging to the family Theraphosidae, commonly known as tarantulas. This genus includes some of the largest spiders in the world, such as the goliath birdeater (Theraphosa blondi), which can have a body length of over three inches and a leg span of nearly ten inches.123

Tarantulas, in general, are large, hairy spiders found in tropical regions. They typically burrow in soil and hunt insects and small vertebrates at night. While many species are kept as pets and are generally harmless to humans, they can deliver a painful bite if provoked. The bite of a tarantula is not considered dangerous to humans.345

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