Tarantulas are generally considered the hairiest spiders in the world.
While pinpointing the single "hairiest" spider is difficult due to subjective assessment and variations within species, tarantulas are renowned for their dense covering of setae (hairs). These hairs serve various purposes, including sensory input, defense, and even locomotion. Different tarantula species exhibit varying degrees of hairiness. Some species, like certain Theraphosa species (Goliath Birdeaters), have particularly thick coats of setae, contributing to their overall imposing appearance. These hairs aren't just for show; they are sensitive to air currents and vibrations, aiding the spider in detecting prey and predators. Furthermore, some tarantulas possess urticating hairs, which they can flick off as a defense mechanism. These hairs cause irritation and discomfort to potential threats. Because of the combination of dense coverage and practical functions, tarantulas are typically recognized as the hairiest spiders.
