Arachnophobes Beware: World’s Largest Sydney Funnel-Web Spider Discovered
The largest Sydney funnel-web spider ever has been discovered on Australia’s Central Coast. Nicknamed “Hercules”, he has been donated to the Australian Reptile Park, where his substantial venom yield is expected to significantly contribute to the park’s anti-venom production.
By Beth Snider · January 9, 2024
The world’s most venomous arachnid species, the Sydney funnel-web spider, has recently made headlines with the discovery of the largest-ever male specimen, named “Hercules.” Measuring a whopping 7.9 centimeters (3.1 inches) from foot to foot, this giant arachnid, with its powerful fangs and piercing bites, was uncovered on Australia’s Central Coast.
Recent humid and rainy weather has led to a spike in funnel-web activity, particularly in suburban gardens and forested areas. Hercules, discovered about 50 miles north of Sydney, was generously handed over to the Australian Reptile Park (ARP) through a public donation drop-off, becoming the 100th funnel-web spider donated since November. Emma Teni, a spider keeper at the park, expressed her initial surprise at its size, stating that his enormous proportions could be a game-changer in the ongoing efforts to manage spider venom.
The Sydney funnel-web spider (Atrax robustus) is known for its distinctive funnel-shaped silk tunnels built at the entrance to its burrows. Although not all funnel-web spiders pose a threat, many have impressive fangs and produce toxic, fast-acting venom. Of the nearly 40 species, only the Atrax robustus spider has been linked to human fatalities. Venomous bites, occurring in 10 to 15 percent of cases, can be fatal, especially to small children.
Since 1981 the ARP Park has operated a successful Spider Venom Program, which involves the weekly milking of over 2,000 spiders, ranging from babies to adults. The venom is then used to create anti-venom through a process where rabbits are injected with small, increasing doses. The antibodies produced by the rabbits are collected and shipped to hospitals across Australia, providing an effective treatment for those bitten by funnel-web spiders.
With Hercules joining the Spider Venom Program, his enormous size is expected to yield a substantial amount of venom, making a significant contribution to anti-venom production. Given the short lifespan of spiders (about one year), the ARP is determined to maximize its impact swiftly. The program has successfully prevented fatalities from funnel-web spider bites in Australia since its inception.