Spider species found in Australia
With the recent news that an entirely new spider was found in Central Queensland, we thought it would be a great time to take a look at some of the most dangerous, interesting and weird spiders that can be found in Australia.
And trust us when we say that this list could've gone on forever. With so many different types of spiders in Australia, there's a lot to learn and discover. Which ones are the most worthy of this list though? Check out the following species of Australian spider and let us know which ones you recognise!
10. Sydney Funnel Web Spider
The Sydney Funnel Web Spider (Atrax robustus) is most commonly found in the New South Wales and Sydney areas.
It's considered one of the most dangerous spiders in the world, due to its potent venom which causes severe pain and even death if untreated. The spider has large enough fangs to penetrate finger nails, making it very hazardous if not handled with great care.
9. Redback Spider
The Redback Spider (Latrodectus hasselti) is one of the most widely distributed spiders in Australia, and it's also considered to be one of the country’s most venomous.
It usually takes residence in human-made structures like sheds or woodpiles, but can also be found in bushes and gardens. The spider's venom can cause severe pain, sweating and nausea in humans.
8. Mouse Spider
While the Mouse Spider might conjure up images of cute eight-legged critters, you might want to think twice before cuddling up to this Australian species.
The Mouse Spider (Missulena) is found throughout Australia and can have a venom similar in potency to that of the Sydney Funnel Web, albeit with less severe effects. Male spiders of this species are also known for their distinct blue abdomens which make them easy to identify.
7. Wolf Spider
These spiders don't howl at the moon, but they’re still pretty intimidating.
The Wolf Spiders (Lycosidae) found in Australia have very long legs that can make them appear larger than they actually are. While their venom is not considered to be lethal, a bite from these eight-legged creatures can cause local pain and swelling that can last for several days. Still, we'd rather be attacked by a wolf spider than an actual wolf.
6. Recluse Spider
This is one of the most interesting spiders in Australia. Not because of its looks or because of its designation as an introduced species, but because their toxin, unlike that of many other spiders, is not a neurotoxin but rather a dermonecrotic toxin.
As the name suggests, this means that their bite will cause severe skin tissue damage and can even lead to necrosis in extreme cases. It's worth noting that these arachnids are quite rare in Australia, so you don't need to worry too much about running into one.
5. Huntsman Spider
Hardly any Australian spiders can be considered friendly, but if we were to give out a coolest spider award, the Huntsman Spider (Heteropoda) would take it.
These spiders are usually large and have flattened bodies that make them look like something from a horror movie. Despite their intimidating appearance, Huntsman Spiders are actually quite harmless and their venom is not considered to be dangerous for humans.
4. White-Tailed Spider
This aptly-named species (Lampona cylindrata) is one of the most common spiders found in Australia.
The White-Tailed Spider prefers cool, shady and humid environments and can be easily identified thanks to the telltale white spot on their abdomen. While they are not considered dangerous, a bite from this spider can cause local pain that might persist for a couple of days. Still, if you can avoid being nibbled by one, do so.
3. Garden Orb Weaving Spider
Love intricate patterns and beautiful homes? Then the Garden Orb Weaving Spider (Eriophora transmarina) is the spider for you.
This species can be found in gardens and forests across Australia, where it weaves intricate webs that are a real sight to behold. Again, it's not a particulary venomous spider, which makes it seem all the cooler. They can also look rather intimidating given that when fully fed they have a massive abdomen.
2. Daddy Long Legs
With one of the most bizarre names in the spider kingdom, the Daddy Long Legs (Pholcus phalangioides) is a species found only in Australia.
This spider has an elongated body and long, thin legs that make it look like something from another world. Thankfully they are harmless to humans and their venom is not considered dangerous. They also love taking down flies and other flying pests in the house, which makes them a friend of any homeowner.
1. Giant Trapdoor Spider
Last but certainly not least we have the recently discovered Euoplos dignitas, otherwise known as the Giant Trapdoor Spider.
Derived from the Latin "dignitas" meaning greatness, it's name was inspired by the impressive size of the spider. It lives in woodland habitats and burrows into the soft soil of the Brigalow Belt in Central Queensland.
These burrows have silk-hinged doors that allow them to reach out and grab prey in a split second. Because that's exactly what Australia needed, right? Another terrifying spider species lurking in the bush.
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