"This species is increasing its range and population density which will undoubtedly lead to an increase in bites (since submitting our study in March we have already received further confirmed bite cases). Our latest study confirms without a doubt that Noble False Widows can cause severe envenomations (the process by which venom is injected). We are encouraging people to capture a photograph of the spider immediately after being bitten. We had to rely on DNA extraction and genetic profiling to confirm some cases. We only compiled envenomation cases where we had a clear identification of the spider responsible for the bite. One thing is certain though: this species is here to stay, and we must learn how to live with it."ĭr John Dunbar, Postdoctoral Researcher at the Venom Systems Lab at NUI Galway and lead author of the study, said: "Speculations around the potential severity of the bites by the Noble False Widow have been debated for many years. We still have much to learn about its genetics, origin, behaviour and development. Two decades ago, this species was almost unknown in Ireland, the UK or in continental Europe. The team are encouraging members of the public to email them at if they think they may have been bitten.ĭr Michel Dugon, Head of the Venom Systems Lab at NUI Galway and senior author of the study, said: "In addition to their medically significant venom, Noble False Widows are extremely adaptable and competitive in the wild. The study also provides epidemiology of bites which reveals that almost all bites occurred in and around the home, and 88% of bites occurred when the victim was either asleep in bed or when the spider was trapped in clothing. This is especially important when the spider has been squashed so an accurate identification of the spider can be made. The research team at NUI Galway have established a DNA database to allow clinicians dealing with cases to confirm the species identity using genetic analysis. In rare instances, victims have developed minor wounds at the bite site or had to be treated for severe bacterial infections. Some victims have experienced tremors, reduced or elevated blood pressure, nausea and impaired mobility. With the increase in False Widow spiders around homes, bites are becoming more prevalent, and scientists are now beginning to realise the full medical importance of these spiders.Įnvenomation symptoms can be both localised and systemic, ranging from mild to debilitating pain and mild to intense swelling. In parts of Ireland and Britain, it has become one of the most common species of spiders found in and around urban habitats. Human movement has largely contributed to spread this species throughout Europe, North Africa, West Asia and parts of North and South America. In addition, the species has benefited from an ever-increasing globalised economy, hitchhiking in containers and crates throughout the globe. Scientists have ruled out climate change as the likely cause but have suggested that a new genetic mutation within the species may have made Noble False Widows more adaptable to new environments. The reasons behind this sudden expansion are not clear. It was first documented in Britain over 140 years ago, but in recent decades the species has suddenly increased in numbers, significantly expanding its range and density. Originating from Madeira and the Canary Islands, the Noble False Widow spider Steatoda nobilis, now has the potential to become one of the world's most invasive species of spider. This new study, published in the international medical journal Clinical Toxicology, confirms that some bite victims experience symptoms very similar to the true black widow spiders and some severe cases require hospitalisation. The threat posed by the Noble False Widow spider has been debated among spider and healthcare specialists for many years. In parts of Ireland and Britain, the False Widow spider has become one of the most common species of spiders found in and around urban habitatsĪ team of scientists from NUI Galway have published a new study showing that Noble False Widow spiders can deliver a bite that requires hospitalisation. Research team have established a DNA database to allow clinicians dealing with cases to confirm the species identity using genetic analysisĮpidemiology of bites reveals that almost all bites occurred in and around the home, and 88% of bites occurred when the victim was either asleep in bed or when the spider was trapped in clothing NUI Galway study confirms that the Noble False Widow spider does have public health implications Image: Female Noble False Widow Spider, Steatoda nobilis view moreĬredit: Dr John Dunbar, Venom Systems Lab at NUI Galway.
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