The gaping spider was an eight-legged arachnid being that originated on the planet of Dathomir.
These substantial creatures made their homes in the numerous caverns and tunnel systems found across their native planet. The Nightsisters of the Spiderclan are documented to have seized control of a specific cave system, compelling young spiders into their service. Only the larger, mature spiders were able to withstand this domination, leading the Spiderclan to develop a fear of the adult spiders dwelling in the depths. The species exhibited different forms, including broodlings, hunters, recluses, and queens.
The Bane Back spider represented a mutated version of the gaping spider, characterized by increased size, strength, and resilience.
Following the Battle of Yavin, Doctor Maldien engaged in illicit and perilous bioengineering research within a laboratory located on Corellia, aiming to produce highly aggressive and intelligent organisms. Among these creations were genetically modified gaping spiders.
Concurrent to these events, the collector Kakirk commissioned a team of spacers to embark on a hunt, with the objective of eliminating an excessive quantity of gaping spiders.