Could This Spider Save Your Life?

Imagine you’re on a little island off the coast of Australia. You’re surrounded by sandy beaches, green forests, and sparkling-blue waters. You’re settling in for a peaceful afternoon when . . .

AAH! You spot a black, hairy spider as big as your fist. Its huge fangs are dripping with a dangerous liquid called venom. If the spider bites you, you’ll be soaked with sweat within minutes. Your stomach will cramp. If you don’t get to a doctor fast, you could even pass away! Gulp.

You’ve just met a K’gari (GAH-ree) funnel-web spider, one of the most lethal in the world. Scientists are studying its fatal venom because it could actually . . . save lives.

More than 200,000 types of animals worldwide make venom—and not just spiders, scorpions, and snakes. Some fish, octopuses, and even mammals produce death-dealing venoms to protect themselves or to take down their next meal. 

Scientists have long studied venoms to create lifesaving medicines. But lately, new technologies have allowed researchers to find out all the ingredients that make up different venoms—and identify which ones could be used to treat diseases. 

In 2016, scientists discovered that one of the ingredients in the venom of K’gari funnel-web spiders can reduce the damage caused by a heart attack or a stroke. Every year, more than a million people in the U.S. suffer from these life-threatening medical issues. Many of these people perish. Doctors are now testing a medicine made from the spider’s venom that might someday save people’s lives in hospitals around the world.

So if you ever see a K’gari funnel-web spider, maybe say thank you! Then run away as fast as you can.