A new, larger species of funnel-web spider has been discovered in Australia, earning the nickname of "big boy".
The Newcastle funnel-web species, much larger than other funnel webs and previously considered part of the Sydney funnel-web species, was found lurking near the New South Wales city, 9News reported.
The Australian Reptile Park's spider expert, Kane Christensen, officially discovered it in Newcastle after encountering several extra-large funnel-webs. Christensen alerted the Australian Museum, who confirmed it was a new species.
"It just blew my mind, the sheer size of it for a male of that species. It's just astronomical how big it was," he said.
Professor Kris Helgen, chief scientist at the Australian Museum, said the discovery was an "amazing moment" in spider biology.
"This is the most venomous spider in the world, and we are pretty excited."
Describing the spider to 9News, Christensen said: "The fangs are definitely a lot longer".
"They could equate to a deeper penetrating, even through a glove possibly, and the amount of venom injected."
The species was nicknamed "big boy". Its official name was Atrax christenseni, which recognises Christensen and his love of funnel webs.
Christensen said it was "unbelievable" to have the species named after him.
"To have a spider that I'm so passionate about named after me is just a dream come true. It's super exciting."
So far, the species is confined to the Newcastle area and unlikely to venture south to Sydney.
According to the Australian Museum, several species of funnel webs are renowned for their "highly toxic and fast-acting venom.
It said the male of Atrax robustus, the Sydney funnel-web Spider, likely caused thirteen recorded deaths along with other medically serious bites.
There have been no deaths recorded since the introduction of antivenom in 1981. The regular funnel-web anti-venom would be effective for anyone unfortunate to get bitter by Atrax christenseni.
Alongside their high levels of venom, the spiders are also known for their funnel-shaped webs, where they get their names.
Funnel-webs typically burrow in moist, cool, sheltered habitats like rotting logs, rocks, and shrubbery.
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