Scientists strike gold with five new species of golden trapdoor spiders

Queensland Museum scientists have described five new species of golden trapdoor spiders from south-eastern Queensland. From being found in the inner-city to the bayside suburb of Burbank and further afield to the Sunshine Coast and Gold Coast hinterlands, the new spiders were a challenge to uncover. Meet the new species! NAME: Euoplos regalis FOUND: Mount Glorious and Mount Nebo areas. Euoplos regalis is one of the biggest … Continue reading Scientists strike gold with five new species of golden trapdoor spiders

qldmuseum11 August, 202111 August, 2021

Arachnology, Insects & Spiders

How to save a spider

Most spiders are smaller than your thumb, but they have a mighty reputation. Venom and silk are their superpowers and they save us from a world that would otherwise be overrun with insects. Most spiders are harmless, but sometimes they turn up around the home in places that might not be convenient. On National Save A Spider Day (14 March), Queensland Museum arachnologist Dr Robert … Continue reading How to save a spider

qldmuseum12 March, 202112 March, 2021

Arachnology, New species

Along Came A Spider and Snail, inspired by the Irwins

In commemoration of Steve Irwin Day (November 15), Queensland Museum reflects on the species they’ve named in honour of the Wildlife Warriors. From a striking new species of snail, to a discovery of miniscule arachnid proportions, we’re admiring the Irwin legacy and the creatures they inspire. At a Snail’s Pace 2009 sparked the start of the Irwin tribute, as a new species and genus of … Continue reading Along Came A Spider and Snail, inspired by the Irwins

qldmuseum10 November, 20201 Comment

5 minutes with, Arachnology

5 minutes with Dr Robert Raven, Arachnology

Today’s #CouchCurator is Head, Terrestrial Biodiversity & Senior Curator, Chelicerata, Dr Robert Raven. With a wide knowledge of invertebrate groups, including earthworms and snails, as well as some frogs, Robert heads the most active arachnological unit in Australia. In 2010, they celebrated that since 1976, staff and honorary associates have described over 1000 new species of spiders. What is your favourite species in the collection … Continue reading 5 minutes with Dr Robert Raven, Arachnology