Giant 10cm Venomous Spider Discovered in Australia

A recent study on January 13th uncovered an unusually large spider in Australia, ranking among the world's most dangerous. What specific threats could this spider pose?

A Venomous Threat of 10 cm

Experiencing the shock of encountering a spider at home is common, ranging from slight discomfort to absolute terror for those with arachnophobia. Now, imagine bumping into a creature that measures a whopping ten centimeters.

On January 13th, a study unveiled a “remarkably large” spider species dubbed “Big Boy,” found in Australia.

The “Big Boy” Spider

Described in the scientific journal BMC Ecology and Evolution, this new funnel-web spider species, named Atrax Christenseni, belongs to the Atracinae family, known as some of the world’s most venomous spiders.

According to Kane Christensen, who discovered the species, the venom glands of Atrax Christenseni are “significantly larger” than usual, allowing for deeper and more potent venom penetration. A single bite could be fatal.

A Nocturnal Hazard

Christensen notes that this species is active from April to November, often residing in unexpected places such as garages or bedrooms. Fortunately, these spiders are found primarily in the region north of Newcastle, Australia, far from many human populations.

A Record Size

The size of Atrax Christenseni is extraordinary, reaching up to nine centimeters, which is four centimeters larger than more common funnel-web species. The largest specimen observed, named Hemsworth after actor Chris Hemsworth, measures 9.2 centimeters.

Despite its size and danger, there is an antidote. Antivenom developed in the 1980s for other funnel-web spider species is also effective against this new one. This is reassuring news, as “no human deaths have occurred since the antivenom’s development,” according to the study.