Atrax sutherlandi facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Atrax sutherlandi |
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Atrax sutherlandi is a fascinating type of Australian funnel-web spider. You can find it living in the forests along the far southern coast of New South Wales and in eastern Victoria, Australia. This spider was given its name to honor Struan Sutherland, a scientist whose important work led to the creation of a successful antivenom for funnel-web spider bites.
Discovering the Sutherland Funnel-Web Spider
Atrax sutherlandi is a member of the funnel-web spider family. These spiders are known for building funnel-shaped webs. They often hide at the bottom of these silk tunnels, waiting for insects or other small creatures to pass by.
What Does It Look Like?
Most Atrax sutherlandi spiders have a shiny black back. Their "fangs," which are called chelicerae, are also glossy black. If you look at their underside, it's usually a deep brown or even a plum color.
An adult Atrax sutherlandi can grow to be about 2 inches (5 cm) long. That's roughly the length of your thumb! In 2015, scientists found a very rare individual with a bright blood-red belly and red chelicerae, which was quite unusual.
Where Does It Live?
Unlike some of its close relatives, like the famous Sydney funnel-web spider that often lives in cities, Atrax sutherlandi prefers to live in remote areas. This means it usually stays far away from people. Because it lives in these wild, untouched places, it doesn't often come into contact with humans. This is why it poses very little danger to the public.
