Brazilian Wolf Spider

Brazilian Wolf Spider, Lycosa raptoria?

A member of the family Lycosidae, the wolf spider can be found on all continents of the world (with the exception of Antarctica). The eye pattern is the easiest way to distinguish this family of spiders as both body pattern and size can vary per species. At glance they are often confused with the brown recluse, a spider known for the necrotic venom delivered in a bite. It is important to keep in mind that a brown recluse prefers a dark, secretive corner whereas the wolf spider will frequently appear in the open and near light. As an active hunter, it is not unusually to come across a wolf spider especially during cold months in a warm home. While the venom is not strong enough to cause problems in humans, the bite itself can carry infectious bacteria as with any spider bite.

This particular spider, photographed in Cananéia, could possibly be the species Lycosa raptoria although there is limited information so the identification is not certain.