Indeed, the funnel-web spider, especially a giant male like Hercules, is an impressive creature, but also a terrifying one due to its deadly venom. It’s amazing how nature can produce such fascinating and dangerous animals at the same time. Hopefully, Hercules is now safely in the Australian Reptile Park, where he can be studied and cared for properly.

Attack only under threat

Yes, funnel-web spiders are generally not aggressive and tend to bite only in self-defense when they feel threatened. It is important to remember that these spiders play an important role in pest control, helping to maintain ecological balance. Even though they are venomous, they prefer to avoid confrontation whenever possible.

Serum production

Yes, the production of antivenom is a crucial part of managing cases of envenomation by spiders such as the funnel-web spider. The antivenom is produced from venom collected from venomous spiders, such as Atrax robustus, and is used to neutralize the effects of venom in humans who have been bitten.

The process of producing antivenom involves extracting the venom from the spider, followed by injecting this venom into animals such as horses or sheep in controlled doses. The animals develop antibodies against the venom, which are then collected and processed to produce the antivenom.

Antivenom is an essential tool in the treatment of venomous spider envenomation as it can help neutralize the effects of the venom and save lives.