What Spiders Can Kill You in Australia
WouterThe most dangerous spider in Australia is the Sydney Funnel Web Spider. Its venom is very potent and can kill both adult and infant humans.
Sydney funnel web spiders live in burrows in humid sheltered places. They are mainly found in eastern Australia, but also in the northern states.
They are also found in sheltered places near water such as swimming pools. When disturbed, these spiders can run fast and become aggressive. This makes them a risk for homes.
Some species of mouse spiders, like the trap door spider, can be a menace to gardens and buildings. These spiders are extremely aggressive and can catch and kill prey.
Fortunately, most of the time these spiders can be avoided. However, there are still a few varieties that can cause serious harm to humans.
White-tailed spiders are common in Australia. They can cause skin necrosis if they bite. Anti-venom is available for some species. Symptoms include pain, swelling, and nausea.
Among the most venomous spiders are the Redback Spiders, Atrax robustus, and the Sydney Funnel Web Spider. These spiders are all members of the genera Latrodectus and Hadronyche.
The Sydney funnel web spider carries a neurotoxin called delta-hexatoxin that can severely affect the nervous system of humans. There have been a number of fatalities from these spiders. In the past, people were able to survive these attacks by receiving antivenom.
A new anti-venom is now available for the Sydney Funnel Web Spider. This could result in new medical treatments for this deadly spider.
