Key Takeaways
- Researchers are investigating the spread of the invasive noble false widow spider in New Zealand
- The spider is venomous, but not aggressive, and its bites can cause swelling, redness, and pain
- The spider has been spotted in several regions, including Porirua, Christchurch, Nelson, Waikato, and Northland
- Researchers will search for the spider in "hotspots" and conduct population genetic work to understand its origins and spread
- The public is encouraged to report suspected sightings to help track the spider’s distribution
Introduction to the Noble False Widow Spider
The noble false widow spider, a venomous and invasive species, has been spotted in several regions of New Zealand, prompting researchers to investigate its spread throughout the country. The spider was first seen in Porirua last year, with subsequent sightings in Christchurch, Nelson, Waikato, and Northland. While it is not an aggressive spider, its bites can cause swelling, redness, and pain due to the toxins in its venom. Massey University ecology professor Steven Trewick has called on the public to report suspected sightings to help understand the extent of the spider’s distribution.
Research Efforts
This summer, Massey researchers will conduct a thorough search of the "hotspots" where the spider has already been found, starting in Porirua. They will gradually move away from urban areas, meter by meter, to determine if the spider is still present as they head into grass, shrub, and bush. The researchers aim to find out whether the spider’s locations are determined by the wind, which can carry the hatchlings away from their eggs, or if they are real hotspots with high densities of the spider. By understanding the spider’s distribution, researchers can better assess the potential risks it poses to the environment and human health.
Understanding the Spider’s Distribution
The noble false widow spider’s distribution could be influenced by various factors, including the wind, which can carry the hatchlings to new locations. When the hatchlings emerge from their eggs, they release a strand of silk that catches the wind, lifting them off and carrying them away. While many may land in unsuitable locations, some may find a suitable spot to make their first web. Researchers will also conduct population genetic work to understand how many spiders arrived in New Zealand and which country they came from. This information will help biologists determine whether the spider is moving into native environments and interacting with other native spiders and animals, which could have significant biodiversity conservation implications.
Characteristics of the Noble False Widow Spider
The noble false widow spider is a pale reddish color with distinctive white markings on the abdomen, which is the large, spherical part of the body. It has a smaller "front end" and long, naked legs, making it look like a "classic cartoon spider." The spider is about 1cm long, with legs that are another couple of centimeters long. They have been found in various locations, including around people’s homes, under pot plants, tarpaulin, and in fence crevices. The spiders are most active at night and can disappear quickly once disturbed, making them challenging to spot.
Public Involvement and Next Steps
The public is encouraged to report suspected sightings of the noble false widow spider to help researchers track its distribution. By working together, researchers and the public can gain a better understanding of the spider’s spread and its potential impacts on the environment. The research efforts will also involve collaboration with PhD students in the British Isles, Europe, and Chile, who are undertaking similar studies on the spider. This multinational effort will provide valuable insights into the spider’s behavior, ecology, and conservation implications, ultimately informing strategies for managing its spread and mitigating its potential risks. As the research continues, it is essential for the public to remain vigilant and report any suspected sightings to help protect the environment and human health.
