Giant Green-bellied Huntsman (Typostola barbata)

The Green-bellied Huntsmen are some of the largest spiders in Australia, with their bodies reaching lengths of over 40 mm and leg spans exceeding 150 mm. Their range extends from Victoria up along the eastern coast to northern Queensland. These spiders have a diverse diet, preying on various invertebrates such as moths, crickets, cockroaches, and other spiders. They are also known to consume small vertebrates like frogs and geckos in their natural habitat. Renowned for their speed, they can run sideways and squeeze into tight spaces. They are covered in fine sensory hairs highly sensitive to air movement, helping them detect prey and predators.

Like other huntsmen spiders, this species lays its eggs in a flattened white silk sac, which they typically hide in dark locations such as beneath loose tree bark. The female guards the eggs until they hatch, which occurs 30 to 60 days after being laid, with faster development in warmer conditions. Each egg sac can produce several hundred spiderlings, which stay near their mother for a few weeks post-hatching and tolerate each other's presence during this period. After dispersal, encounters between siblings often lead to cannibalism.

These spiders grow by shedding their exoskeleton, a process known as ecdysis or moulting. For successful moulting, they need to hang undisturbed from a leaf or branch. Their color darkens, and they stop eating a few days before moulting, which they usually complete within about 10 minutes. They refrain from feeding for roughly 24 hours after moulting. As they mature, males and females can be distinguished; males have enlarged bulbs at the ends of their pedipalps (feelers) and generally have slimmer bodies and longer legs compared to females.

Please note that all invertebrates featured on CreepyCrawlys.com are sourced through either captive breeding programs or sustainable, ethical practices. We prioritize the preservation of natural habitats and ensure responsible sourcing methods for the well-being of the animals and their ecosystems.