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Scientists Identify New Funnel Web Spider Species in Newcastle

Scientists Identify New Funnel Web Spider Species in Newcastle

Newcastle Funnel-Web Spider Identified as Largest and Deadliest Species

Researchers have confirmed that Australia’s most infamous spider, the Sydney funnel-web, actually consists of three distinct species. The largest and most venomous among them, the Newcastle funnel-web spider, has now been officially identified. Despite the differences, current antivenom treatments remain effective for all species.

Three Distinct Funnel-Web Spider Species

A team of scientists from the Leibniz Institute for the Analysis of Biodiversity Change in Germany, the Australian Museum in Sydney, and Flinders University in Adelaide uncovered the diversity in Sydney funnel-web spider species. They published their findings in BMC Ecology and Evolution after years of research.

The three identified species are:

  • The true Sydney funnel-web (Atrax robustus) – Found from the Central Coast through the Sydney Basin.
  • The Southern Sydney funnel-web (Atrax montanus) – Common in the Blue Mountains and areas south and west of Sydney.
  • The Newcastle funnel-web (Atrax christenseni) – The largest and deadliest, located around Newcastle, north of Sydney.

Figure 1: Atrax christenseni was named in honour of Kane Christensen, the Central Coast spider enthusiast who discovered it. (Credit: Kane Christensen)

Discovery Process

Scientists reached this conclusion by studying the spiders’ DNA and comparing both recent and historical specimens from the early 1900s. They used a combination of anatomical and molecular techniques to confirm the differences.

Dr. Stephanie Loria, lead researcher from the Leibniz Institute, explained that previous research suspected these variations for years. However, recent genetic analysis finally confirmed the existence of three distinct species.

The Newcastle Funnel-Web: Largest and Most Venomous

The Newcastle funnel-web spider, identified as the most venomous of the three species, gained attention due to its massive size. A specimen nicknamed “Big Boy” was handed to the Australian Reptile Park for venom collection, sparking further scientific interest.

Spider enthusiast Kane Christensen, who worked at the park during the discovery, played a significant role in bringing attention to the species. In recognition of his contributions, the scientific name for the Newcastle funnel-web spider is Atrax christenseni.

Christensen expressed his excitement about the honour, mentioning how the spider’s sheer size immediately stood out compared to the other Sydney funnel-web spiders.

Venom Potency and Bite Risks

The Newcastle funnel-web spider is more dangerous due to its size and venom potency. Larger spiders can inject more venom, increasing the risk of severe bites. However, the potency of the venom among the three species is still being studied.

Despite these findings, the current funnel web spider antivenom remains effective across all species. Professor Geoff Isbister from Calvary Mater Newcastle Hospital confirmed that all past bites from these species have been successfully treated with the same antivenom. He added that no deaths from funnel-web spider bites have occurred in the past 45 years, thanks to the prompt administration of antivenom.

Impact on Antivenom Production

This discovery may influence future antivenom production and biochemical research on spider venoms. The Australian Reptile Park has collected funnel-web venom since 1981 for antivenom production.

Dr. Danilo Harms, one of the lead authors, noted that while the existing antivenom remains effective, understanding species-level differences could further optimise treatment.

The key to survival, according to Professor Isbister, is receiving antivenom promptly. He stressed the importance of seeking immediate medical attention after a bite.

Importance of the Discovery

This breakthrough enhances the scientific understanding of Australia’s deadliest spider. The revised classification helps clarify long-standing confusion about the species and highlights the importance of international scientific collaboration.

The research also underscores the role of historical museum collections in modern scientific discoveries. The Australian Museum’s collection, with thousands of funnel-web specimens, was instrumental in this study.

Dr. Helen Smith, an arachnologist at the Australian Museum, explained that historical data helped the team trace the distinctions among the three species.

Larger Context: The Role of Spiders in Nature

Spiders have existed for over 300 million years, predating dinosaurs. They play a vital role in ecosystems by controlling insect populations. The diversity among spider species remains vast, with over 52,500 known species and many more yet to be discovered.

While the funnel web spider species is notorious for its venom, it is also a critical part of Australia’s biodiversity. Research like this ensures a deeper understanding of these creatures and enhances public safety through better treatment strategies.

Final Thoughts

The identification of the Newcastle funnel web spider as a separate species represents a major step forward in understanding Australia’s venomous wildlife. The findings reveal the largest and most venomous funnel-web species to date, yet current antivenom treatments remain effective across all species.

Ongoing research will continue to explore the venom’s potency and the implications for medical treatments. For now, experts remind the public that early medical intervention and antivenom use ensure high survival rates for funnel web spider bites.

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