Spider which uses spring trap to capture prey discovered in Australia
Researchers say their hunting method - which allows them to prey on dangerous ants - is unprecedented.
Coverage by Political Leaning
See how different sides of the spectrum reported this story
Notable Quotes
"The snare's 'exceptionally high power' flings the ant into a bigger web at '15 times the most extreme g-forces experienced by jet pilots.'"
— Prof Ajay Narendra , Academic
"The snare mechanism seems to have evolved as a highly specialised way of allowing the spider to 'pick off' potentially hazardous prey one at a time and transport them a safe distance away from ant trails and nests."
— Dr Jonas Wolff , Academic
"This seems to be the only case where a spider's web is designed to catch a single prey species, and where the mechanism is triggered by the prey rather than by the predator."
— Prof Ajay Narendra , Academic
Key People
Researcher involved in the discovery of the spider and its hunting technique.
Biomedical researcher and photographer who initially observed the spider.
Lead researcher studying the unique hunting method of the newly discovered spider.
Locations
All Coverage
Researchers say their hunting method - which allows them to prey on dangerous ants - is unprecedented.
Similar Stories
Related coverage based on topic and tags
All Blacks power past Australia to retain Bledisloe Cup
New Zealand retain the Bledisloe Cup for a 23rd straight year as they power past Australia to extend their remarkable unbeaten run at Eden Park.
October 10, 2026 at 09:21 AMHow the trial of murdered Australian brothers and US friend unfolded
The mother of two Australian surfers murdered in Mexico two years ago with their American friend said "accountability matters".
October 10, 2026 at 06:04 AMFlydubai attacker began a 'drift towards extremism and terrorism' in Australia, UAE says
The United Arab Emirates' attorney-general also alleges the co-pilot was trying to crash the plane into Tel Aviv's airport.
October 10, 2026 at 04:34 AMRenshaw century puts Australia on top against South Africa - scorecard
Latest scorecard from the first Test between South Africa and Australia in Durban.
October 10, 2026 at 12:00 AMThree men found guilty of murdering two Australian surfer brothers and US friend
The bodies of Jake and Callum Robinson and their friend Carter Rhoad were found at the bottom of a well.
October 9, 2026 at 09:55 PMMexican court finds three men guilty of 2024 killing of Australian, US surfers - Reuters
Mexican court finds three men guilty of 2024 killing of Australian, US surfers Reuters
October 9, 2026 at 09:53 PM