Common Name: Hasselt’s Spiny Spider
Scientific Name: Macracantha hasselti
Family: Araneidae
Size: Female: 8 mm
Location: Chitwan, Nepal

Macracantha hasselti is a colorful orb-weaving spider that is most likely found in the lowland and mid-hill regions of Nepal, typically below around 1,500 meters.

Females are easily recognized by their bright orange, triangular abdomen marked with 12 black spots and six sharp black spines, with the rear pair being the longest. The carapace is covered with dense white hairs, and females grow up to around 8 mm in length, excluding the legs. Males are much smaller and less noticeable.

This species inhabits tropical forests and builds orb-shaped webs. Despite their striking appearance and sharp spines, these spiders are harmless to humans. Their vivid coloration, hardened abdomen, and long spines act as a defense mechanism against predators, making them appear dangerous and difficult to eat.

Please feel free to comment below if the above species has been misidentified.

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