Everything is stable in Australia: a new species of large poisonous spiders has been found (2 photos)

Australian researchers have discovered a new species of large and dangerous funnel-web spider. In 2018, spider expert Kane Christensen found the first specimens of the species in Newcastle. The Australian Museum later confirmed that it was a new species, named Atrax christenseni after the scientist who discovered it.





According to Christensen, these spiders can grow up to 4.5 cm (1.7 in) in size, and their powerful fangs can inject more venom than other funnel-web spiders. Keen-eyed arachnologists have noticed that Atrax christenseni has a unique shape of the embolus, an important spider element in the reproduction process (the embolus essentially functions as a penis).



Atrax christenseni spider

The bites of these spiders cause severe symptoms such as muscle cramps and excessive sweating, and without prompt medical intervention can result in death. However, an antidote that is already available is effective against this new species as well