Blue spiders captivate nature enthusiasts and arachnid lovers alike with their striking colors and unique sizes. This list covers some of the most fascinating blue spider species from around the world, complete with detailed size comparisons to help you understand their scale. Whether you’re a hobbyist, researcher, or just curious, this guide offers precise insights into these remarkable arachnids.
1. Cobalt Blue Tarantula (Cyriopagopus lividus)
The Cobalt Blue Tarantula is native to Myanmar and Thailand and is renowned for its vibrant metallic blue legs contrasted against a black body. Adult females can reach a leg span of about 13 centimeters (5 inches), making it a medium-sized tarantula. Its striking color and relatively docile temperament make it highly sought after in the exotic pet trade, but it requires careful handling due to its defensive nature.
2. Peacock Spider (Maratus volans)
Maratus volans, the Peacock Spider, is one of the smallest blue spiders, measuring only around 5 millimeters in length. Found in Australia, males display iridescent blue and red abdominal flaps used in elaborate courtship dances. Despite its tiny size, its vivid coloration and behavior have made it a favorite subject for photographers and arachnologists alike.
3. Blue Crab Spider (Thomisus onustus)
The Blue Crab Spider is a member of the Thomisidae family and is known for its ability to change color to blend with blue flowers. Females can grow up to 7 millimeters in body length, with a leg span of roughly 2 centimeters. This species’ blue hue is rare among crab spiders and serves as effective camouflage while hunting pollinators.
4. Green Lynx Spider (Peucetia viridans) with Blue Markings
While primarily green, some individuals of Peucetia viridans show striking blue markings on their legs and body. They measure around 22 millimeters in body length with a leg span close to 5 centimeters. This spider is a fast-moving ambush predator found in the southern United States and Mexico, admired for its dazzling coloration and hunting prowess.
5. Blue Wave Spider (Argyrodes antipodianus)
The Blue Wave Spider is a small, shiny blue spider measuring roughly 4 millimeters in body length. It is a kleptoparasite, often found living on the webs of larger orb-weaver spiders in New Zealand and Australia. Its metallic blue sheen and unique behavior make it a fascinating species for ecological study.
6. Blue Jumping Spider (Salticus scenicus)
Salticus scenicus, commonly called the Blue Jumping Spider, is a small, agile hunter about 5 to 7 millimeters long. It is found across Europe and North America, known for its iridescent blue and black striped pattern. This species uses excellent vision and jumping ability to stalk prey, making it a favorite among spider enthusiasts.
7. Blue Tarantula (Poecilotheria metallica)
Also called the Gooty Sapphire Ornamental, this tarantula is famous for its electric blue coloration covering most of its body. Native to a small region in India, adults reach a leg span of about 15 centimeters (6 inches). It’s critically endangered in the wild but highly prized by collectors for its vivid color and intricate patterns.
8. Blue Widow Spider (Latrodectus variolus)
The Blue Widow is a relative of the Black Widow but displays a bluish tint on its legs and body. Females grow up to 12 millimeters in body length, with a leg span reaching 3 to 4 centimeters. Found primarily in the southeastern United States, it is venomous but less aggressive than its black counterpart.
9. Blue Orchard Spider (Argiope aurantia) with Blue Tints
Argiope aurantia is typically yellow and black, but some specimens show subtle blue iridescence on their legs and abdomen. They can grow up to 25 millimeters in body length, with a leg span exceeding 7 centimeters. Their large size and striking web decorations make them a common subject in garden ecosystems.
10. Blue Fang Tarantula (Ephebopus cyanognathus)
Native to the rainforests of Suriname, the Blue Fang Tarantula is named for its bright blue chelicerae (fangs). Adults have a leg span of about 12 to 14 centimeters (4.7 to 5.5 inches). This species is semi-arboreal and known for its defensive behavior, making it a species of interest for experienced hobbyists.
Size Comparison Chart
To better visualize these species, here is a rough size comparison from smallest to largest based on leg span or body length where applicable:
- Peacock Spider: ~5 mm length
- Blue Wave Spider: ~4 mm length
- Blue Jumping Spider: 5-7 mm length
- Blue Crab Spider: ~7 mm length
- Blue Widow Spider: 12 mm body length, 3-4 cm leg span
- Green Lynx Spider (blue markings): 22 mm body length, ~5 cm leg span
- Blue Orchard Spider (blue tints): 25 mm length, >7 cm leg span
- Blue Fang Tarantula: 12-14 cm leg span
- Cobalt Blue Tarantula: ~13 cm leg span
- Blue Tarantula (Poecilotheria metallica): ~15 cm leg span
How to Choose
When selecting a blue spider species to study, observe, or keep as a pet, consider several factors beyond color alone. Size matters depending on your space and comfort level; smaller spiders like the Peacock Spider are easier to house and observe, while larger tarantulas require more specialized enclosures. Temperament is crucial—species like the Cobalt Blue Tarantula and Blue Fang Tarantula can be defensive and require experience, whereas jumping spiders tend to be more approachable. Habitat and care needs differ widely; orb-weavers and kleptoparasites have unique ecological roles and are less commonly kept in captivity. Finally, consider conservation status—some species like Poecilotheria metallica are endangered and should be sourced responsibly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are blue spiders venomous to humans?
Most blue spiders have venom used to subdue prey, but very few pose serious threats to humans. Exceptions like the Blue Widow have medically significant venom but generally avoid humans.
Why are some spiders blue?
Blue coloration in spiders results from microscopic physical structures that reflect light rather than pigments. This iridescence can serve as camouflage, mating signals, or warning coloration.
Can I keep a blue tarantula as a pet?
Yes, species like the Cobalt Blue and Blue Fang tarantulas are popular among experienced keepers, but they require proper enclosures, humidity control, and understanding of their behavior.
How big do blue spiders get?
Size varies widely, from tiny Peacock Spiders around 5 mm to large tarantulas exceeding 15 cm in leg span. Always check species-specific size before acquiring one.
Do blue spiders build webs?
Some blue spiders, like the Blue Wave Spider, build webs, while others such as jumping spiders hunt actively without webs. Web-building behavior depends on the species’ ecological niche.
Are blue spiders endangered?
Certain species like Poecilotheria metallica are critically endangered due to habitat loss. Conservation efforts are important to protect these unique spiders.
Final Thoughts
Blue spiders offer a stunning glimpse into nature’s diversity, combining vivid coloration with fascinating behaviors and sizes. Whether you’re intrigued by the tiny Peacock Spider’s dance or the majestic Blue Tarantula’s striking hues, understanding their size and habits helps appreciate these arachnids more deeply. Always prioritize ethical observation and responsible care when interacting with these remarkable blue species.
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