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Rare Poecilotheria hanumavilasumica Spiders on the Verge of Extinction in Rameswaram
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News18•08-10-2026, 12:40
Rare Poecilotheria hanumavilasumica Spiders on the Verge of Extinction in Rameswaram
- •The rare Poecilotheria hanumavilasumica spiders, found exclusively on Rameswaram Island, are currently facing the threat of extinction.
- •Growing to the size of a human hand with hairy bodies, these nocturnal creatures hunt small insects, snakes, and frogs only at night.
- •Habitat destruction, unwarranted killing by humans out of fear, and illegal smuggling as pets abroad are driving down their population.
- •A spider bite is not life-threatening but can cause temporary numbness, muscle cramps, and burning sensations which are treatable at hospitals.
- •Organizations and the Forest Department are actively raising awareness among coastal residents to protect these unique spiders from poachers.
Key Questions Answered
The Poecilotheria hanumavilasumica spiders, also known as tiger spiders, are a rare species found exclusively on Rameswaram Island in Ramanathapuram district.
No, if these spiders bite humans, it is not life-threatening, though it may cause immediate effects like limb numbness, muscle cramps, a burning sensation, and swelling which can be treated at a government hospital.
Their population is declining due to the destruction of their tree and forest habitats, people killing them out of fear or due to their appearance, and illegal poaching to be sold abroad as exotic pets.
