04-07-2025
Deadly invasive spider spreading across NZ sparks warning for Aussie cities
Not only are noble false widow spiders venomous, but some populations harbour antibiotic-resistant bacteria on their fangs.
A deadly invasive spider species is spreading quickly across New Zealand, and experts think it may have already reached Australia.
Not only are noble false widow spiders venomous, but some populations harbour antibiotic resistant bacteria on their fangs.
Ecologist Professor Steven Truick, who's been tracking the city-dwelling spiders since they were first detected on the North Island in late 2024, said it's possible the species has also made its way to Australia.
Speaking to Yahoo News, he said, you may already have it, but it's just not noticed.
Of course, that's a really fundamental issue with species invasion.
If alien monsters turned up and started eating people, we'd notice very quickly, but with something rather subtle like this, we don't.
The spider's rapid spread across New Zealand suggests it may have been there long before it was officially identified last year, thriving in harsh urban environments where native spiders struggle to live.
While Australia's Department of Agriculture didn't confirm whether the species poses a threat, it did state that there are a number of measures in place to manage biosecurity.
