Three spiders in one: the burrow spider, the most poisonous in Australia, is actually a trio

One spider, three identities. It is the discovery that concerns theAtrax robustusthe infamous Australian burrow spider, known for its potentially lethal venom. Long thought to be a single species, this arachnid has turned out to be a complex of three distinct species, each with specific physical characteristics and habitats.

The mystery was revealed by a team of scientists fromAustralian Museum in Sydneyin collaboration with Flinders University, Adelaide and the Leibniz Institute in Germany. The study, published on BMC Ecology and Evolutioncombined DNA analysis and anatomical studies on a large collection of specimens, revealing the threefold nature of this spider.

“The ‘true’ burrow spider, Atrax robustus, is widespread in the Sydney metropolitan region,” the researchers explain. “A second species, Atrax montanusis found mainly in the south and west, while Atrax christenseni it is only present in the area around Newcastle.”

This discovery is not just a scientific curiosity, but could have important practical implications. “Distinguishing the three species could lead to the creation of more effective antidotes“, underline the authors of the study.

The bite of the burrow spider is in fact considered one of the most dangerous in the worldwith neurotoxic effects that can be fatal in the absence of timely medical intervention. The antivenin, developed in the 1980s, has dramatically reduced the number of deaths, but its effectiveness could be further improved by taking into account the differences between the three species.

The research also opens new perspectives in the study of the venom of these spiders. “The revised taxonomy may have implications for biochemical studies of spider venoms,” the researchers say.

The discovery of the triple identity of the burrow spider is a further example of how scientific research can continually reveal new surprises in the natural world, with important implications for human health.

An iconic spider with a complex history

Atrax robustus it was first described in 1877 based on a single specimen collected in Australia. Since then, it has become the subject of numerous studies, in particular due to its danger. This spider is characterized by a dark and shiny body, which can reach 4 centimeters in length.

Particularly aggressive during the breeding season, the males abandon their dens to look for mates, often ending up in contact with humans. It is males who produce the most toxic venom peptidesmaking them the main culprits in poisoning cases.

Their burrows, built in the ground and featuring a funnel web, are a key feature of the natural landscape of eastern Australia. However, these habitats are increasingly threatened by urbanization and climate change.

The study also highlights the importance of conservation. Distinguishing species is essential to protect biodiversity and ensure the survival of these spidersfundamental for the balance of the ecosystem.