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International Business Times UK
International Business Times UK
World
Seneca Cabrera

What Is the New Zealand False Widow Spider? Invasive 'Alien Monsters' Carry Deadly Venom and Drug-Resistant Bacteria

A male (left) and female (right) noble false widow spider (Steatoda nobilis). (Credit: Alvesgaspar/Natural History Museum UK)

Australia is now on red alert. The New Zealand false widow spider, dubbed an 'alien monster' by scientists, has established itself across New Zealand and is showing signs of advancing across the Tasman Sea.

Carrying both neurotoxic venom and drug-resistant bacteria, this invasive arachnid presents a rare dual threat to public health. As its spread accelerates, experts warn Australia must act swiftly to prevent another ecological crisis.

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