The Elusive Tasmanian Cave Spider

Bites and Stings

Bites and Stings

A Tasmanian cave spider hanging upside down in a cave

The Tasmanian cave spider is a fascinating arachnid that is endemic and exclusive to the island of Tasmania. They live in dark, moist environments throughout the island, especially caves. Despite their small body size, their legs can span a whopping 18 centimetres. (Photo credit: Tasmania Parks and Wildlife Service)

The Tasmanian cave spider (Hickmania troglodytes) is a fascinating arachnid that is native to Tasmania, Australia. It is the last of an old Gondwana lineage of spiders, with its nearest relatives in South America.

They are an important part of Tasmania's diverse and unique ecosystem, and are of interest to researchers studying the island's natural history. These spiders have a relatively long lifespan and may live for several decades.

If you’re in Tasmania, you can sign up to our general or childcare first aid courses to learn more about identifying and treating spider bites.

We also have locations across the rest of Australia.

Appearance

The Tasmanian cave spider has several identifying characteristics that distinguish it from other spider species.

Firstly, they have a shiny black body that can reach up to 2-3 centimetres in length. Despite this small body length, their eight legs can span up to 18 centimetres.

The carapace of this cave dweller is reddish brown, while their abdomen is a dull and dark greyish brown. They also have the primitive pattern of four abdominal breathing organs, called book lungs, which are seen as four light-coloured patches on the underside of their abdomen.

Males are smaller, though with longer legs that have a kink-like curve near the end of each second leg.

Distribution and Habitat

The Tasmanian cave spider is endemic and exclusive to the island of Tasmania, where it is widely distributed.

Specifically, they are found in caves and other dark, moist environments throughout the island, where they breed and hunt for prey. They can be found in other dark, cool, and sheltered habitats, from hollow logs to the undersides of bridges.

They weave a sheet web, which can be more than a metre wide.

Feeding and Behaviour

Tasmanian cave spiders hang on the underside of their sheet web, waiting for prey to fly, jump, or fall into it. Their prey include cave crickets, beetles, flies, other spiders, and millipedes.

Their courtship and mating occurs from late winter to spring. The male spider approaches the female's web and uses his long front legs to beat against her while alternating with pauses or retreats.

This ritualistic behaviour can last up to five hours and serves to pacify the female. The ultimate goal is for the male to grip the female's head in the specialised kink on the metatarsal segment of his second legs and pin her fangs apart to facilitate safe mating.

Females subsequently guard their egg sacs until the spiderlings emerge roughly eight to ten months later.

Danger and First Aid

Cave Spiders are not aggressive or harmful to humans.

Bites are also infrequent, due to their habitat.

However, if you are bitten, treat the bite with caution and in the same manner as a Redback spider bite.

Final Thoughts

If you would like to learn more about providing first aid in the event of a insect bite or sting, book a First Aid course with us today. You can also learn how to provide first aid in an education and care setting.

Originally published at https://www.australiawidefirstaid.com.au/resources/tasmanian-cave-spider
as part of the Australia Wide First Aid Articles Library

Related Articles

Cat Bite article header
First Aid for a Cat Bite

Cat bites, while often underestimated, can lead to serious health complications if not treated promptly and properly. Cats' mouths harbour a variety of bacteria that can cause infections in humans.

Drop Bear article header
First Aid for Drop Bear Attacks

Encounters with wildlife can often be thrilling, but when it comes to the creature known as the drop bear, the experience can quickly turn dangerous. A sharp increase in recent attacks prompts the need for understanding proper first aid procedures in case of an attack.

Funnel web spider article header
First Aid for Funnel Web Spider Bites

Encountering a funnel web spider can be a frightening experience, and if a bite occurs, it is crucial to act swiftly and effectively to minimize the potential risks associated with their venom.

Cat Scratch article header
How to Treat Cat Scratches

Cats are beloved pets for millions of people worldwide, but sometimes even the most gentle feline can become agitated or scared, leading to scratches. While cat scratches are usually not serious, they can still be painful and carry the risk of infection.

Green head ant close up
5 Most Common Ants in Australia

Australia is home to a remarkably diverse array of ant species, showcasing a fascinating range of characteristics and behaviours. By understanding the identification, range, and behaviours of these ants, individuals can navigate their surroundings with greater awareness and appreciation.

A golden-brown Teddy Bear Bee sitting on a plant stalk
5 Most Common Bees in Australia

Recognizing the significance of bees' positive impact, it becomes imperative to acquaint ourselves with the various species, distinguishing characteristics, geographical distributions, stinging tendencies, and suitable first aid measures for bee stings.

A brown Paper wasp sitting on a green leaf
5 Common Wasps in Australia

Australia is home to a diverse range of insect species, including several types of wasps. While some wasps are beneficial as predators of other pests, others can pose a threat due to their stinging capabilities.

Bird Dropping Spider
The Bird Dropping Spider: A Master of Mimicry

As their name suggests, the Bird Dropping Spider has developed colorations and patterns that mimic bird poo. This ingenious disguise means they can thrive in a wide variety of habitats, including suburban gardens.

The Slaty Grey Snake
The Slaty Grey Snake | Snake Facts

One of the most common snake species in Darwin and Australia's Top End region, the Slaty grey snake is a medium-sized species with shiny scales. They have been known to defend themselves aggressively when disturbed.

Golden Crowned Snake
The Secretive Golden Crowned Snake

The Golden crowned snake is well known for its crown of yellowish scales. Found along the east coast of Australia, this snake is relatively enigmatic due to its secretive and nocturnal nature.