There are a large variety of Trapdoor Spiders in southern Africa. These are old-world spiders, closely related to the Baboon Spiders. They are usually glossy black to brown with robust, pointed legs.
Full Name: Trapdoor Spider (Stasimopus sp.)
Other names: Valdeurspinnekop
Classification: HARMLESS
There is a large variety of Trapdoor Spiders in southern Africa. These are old-world spiders, closely related to the Baboon Spiders. They are usually glossy black to brown with robust, pointed legs. The cephalothorax is large with notable fangs. These spiders can give a painful bite due to the size of the fangs. Males are long and spindly. These spiders live underground, lining a burrow with webs and forming a disc-like lid that seals the entrance. During the breeding season, males will be on the move, searching for females in their burrows. They may be frequently seen during this period and often fall into swimming pools.
