Australian scientists have identified a new and larger species of the Sydney funnel-web spider, one of the world’s deadliest arachnids. Dubbed “Big Boy” by researchers, this venomous arachnid was first discovered in the early 2000s near Newcastle, 170 kilometers (105 miles) north of Sydney. The discovery was made by Kane Christensen, a spider enthusiast and former head of spiders at the Australian Reptile Park. “This particular spider is a lot larger, its venom glands are significantly bigger, and its fangs are much longer,” Christensen explained.
Scientific Recognition and Classification
In a study released by the Australian Museum, Flinders University, and Germany’s Leibniz Institute, the new species has been classified as Atrax christenseni, honoring Christensen’s contribution. Measuring up to 9 centimeters (3.54 inches) in length, Atrax christenseni is nearly twice the size of the common Sydney funnel-web spider, which typically grows up to 5 centimeters (1.97 inches).
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Notable differences in size, venom delivery, and genital bulb structures distinguish the Newcastle funnel-web from its Sydney counterpart. DNA analysis revealed that these spiders last shared a common ancestor approximately 17 million years ago, solidifying their classification as a distinct species.
Habitat and Behavior
The Newcastle funnel-web spider is nocturnal, with activity peaking between November and April. While commonly found within 150 kilometers (93 miles) of Sydney, the Newcastle variant appears confined to limited locations near Newcastle. Conservation efforts have prompted researchers to keep specific sites confidential.
These arachnids often wander into garages, bedrooms, and other domestic spaces during the night. Christensen cautioned, “I would not recommend touching them—that’s for sure. They deliver copious amounts of venom.”
Venom Potency and Antivenom
The venom of the Newcastle funnel-web is chemically similar to that of the Sydney funnel-web, known for its fast-acting and highly toxic effects. Male funnel-web spiders are particularly dangerous, as their venom is much stronger than that of females.
Despite its enhanced size and venom capacity, the development of antivenom in 1981 has significantly reduced fatalities from funnel-web bites. Thirteen deaths have been attributed to the Sydney funnel-web, but no fatalities have been recorded since the introduction of the treatment. The same antivenom is effective against bites from Atrax christenseni.
Evolutionary Significance
The discovery of Atrax christenseni also sheds light on the evolutionary history of funnel-web spiders. Researchers reclassified the southern Sydney funnel-web (Atrax montanus), originally described in 1914, as a distinct species, bringing the total number of known Australian funnel-web species to 38.
The Newcastle funnel-web’s reproductive system plays a critical role in its classification. The male’s significantly larger copulatory organ prevents interbreeding with the Sydney funnel-web, maintaining the species’ genetic distinction.
A Historic Discovery
The confirmation of Atrax christenseni highlights the importance of local expertise and collaboration. Christensen’s initial observation of unusually large funnel-web spiders over two decades ago set the stage for groundbreaking research.
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The spider’s nickname, “Big Boy,” and its scientific name immortalize Christensen’s role in expanding our understanding of one of the world’s most feared arachnids. While the Newcastle funnel-web poses a potential threat, advancements in antivenom ensure it remains a fascinating specimen rather than a deadly menace.