Q&A for How to Identify a Water Spider

Take away or move the water, but beyond that, there isn't much you can do. If they're in your pool, you could add chemicals to the pool that could get rid of them.

Not usually. They would mostly just live in the water, as they don't need to come out of it.

Water spiders can be brown, black, and lots of other colours, and when they're underwater they look like they have a bubble around them.

Yes, water spiders can be found on shallow or deep bodies of water.

A black widow would probably be able to stay under the water for less than a minute since it's a land spider.

They only bite when they feel threatened or are scared.

Yes, water spiders, such as the diving spider, do eat mosquito larvae. These spiders typically hunt aquatic insects and small larvae by diving into the water and trapping their prey. Water spiders are known to feed on various small aquatic creatures, including mosquito larvae, which they capture and consume. Their role in controlling mosquito larvae can help reduce the mosquito population in the areas they inhabit.

The spider you're describing sounds like a tarantula. Tarantulas are large, brown, and fuzzy spiders known for their size and distinct appearance. Many species carry their young on their backs after the spiderlings hatch. This behavior is common in some tarantula species, where the mother protects and carries the tiny babies until they are old enough to survive on their own. Tarantulas are generally docile but can be defensive if they feel threatened. If you're considering keeping one as a pet, it's important to understand their care needs, including a proper enclosure and diet.

Water spider bites, such as those from the diving spider, are generally not dangerous to humans. While they can bite if provoked, their venom is typically not harmful. Most water spiders are not aggressive and will bite only in self-defense. The bite may cause mild irritation, redness, or swelling, but it's unlikely to cause serious harm. If you experience severe reactions, such as increased swelling or difficulty breathing, seek medical attention.