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Science
15 January 2025

Discovery Unveils Three Species Of Sydney Funnel-Web Spider

Research reveals complex diversity among one of the world’s most venomous arachnids, sparking new antidote developments.

Researchers from Hamburg have made astounding discoveries about one of the world's most venomous spiders, the Sydney funnel-web spider, thanks to international collaboration.

Led by Danilo Harms, a spider researcher at the Leibniz Institute for Biodiversity Research, and Bruno Buzatto from Flinders University, the team uncovered significant insights indicating the infamous funnel-web spider complex consists of three distinct species, one of which was previously unknown. The findings were shared by the University of Hamburg.

According to their research, the 'real' Sydney funnel-web spider primarily inhabits areas surrounding Sydney and the Central Coast. The second species, dubbed the 'southern Sydney funnel-web spider,' is found to the south and west of Sydney. The largest of the three, the 'Newcastle funnel-web,' is native to the Newcastle area.

Harms noted, "Even though there is effective antidote, considering species-specific differences can be valuable for the production of antidotes for funnel-web bites.” This specificity could be especially helpful for refining treatments for those bitten by these spiders. While fatalities from bites are rare, the discovery of these species has the potential to revolutionize how antidotes are developed.

The esteemed funnel-web spiders, along with the South American banana spiders, hold the reputation of being among the deadliest spiders globally. Their aggressive nature becomes even more concerning during mating seasons, as male funnel-webs are known to enter buildings searching for less venomous females.

Past studies had primarily categorized funnel-web spiders under the scientific name Atrax robus, without realizing the scope of diversity within this species complex. The research team collected and analyzed genetic samples from various specimens, utilizing both contemporary and historical collections at the Australian Museum Sydney and at their facility in Hamburg. This led to the analysis of hundreds of spider specimens.

The researchers discovered clear morphological and genetic distinctions between species. For example, the male funnel-webs of each species exhibit different anatomical structures relevant to their mating behaviors. Harms pointed out the challenges faced historically with classifying these spiders correctly, stating, "The fact is, many had no idea which species they were studying all along. This has significant ramifications for previous research materials.”

The findings, published in the journal BMC Ecology and Evolution, revealed three distinct types of funnel-web spiders: the known Atrax robus, the newly classified Atrax montanus, and the recently identified Atrax christenseni. The last of these was found to have an extensive size and morphological differences from its relatives, showcasing the diversity across this feared group of arachnids.

Another finding highlights how the antidote, developed since the 1980s, retains efficacy for all three species, dramatically reducing fatality rates associated with bites. Harms expressed optimism about future research, emphasizing the importance of critically evaluating existing data and methodologies concerning spider research.

Reflecting on her exhilarating field research experience, bachelor’s student Svea-Celina stated, "This research project was one of the greatest adventures of my life. Following the world's most poisonous spider through the forests of Australia makes you see nature differently.”

This incredible interdisciplinary effort showcases how collaborative research can yield groundbreaking insights, not just for scientific communities but also for public health and safety. By learning more about how different species function, scientists can devise targeted antidotes to treat spider bites effectively.

Moving forward, researchers suspect not only the Sydney funnel-web spiders may hide similar species complexes, hinting at myriad undiscovered diversities within spider families. This realization encourages future investigations, perhaps leading to even more significant findings concerning other arachnid species.

With the fate of venomous bites hanging on the balance of scientific discovery, this breakthrough serves as both an exciting academic insight and promises to protect many who come across these stunning yet dangerous creatures.