Comparing Venom Potency Between Funnel-Web and Mouse Spiders

The discussion focuses on the differences in venom potency between funnel-web spiders and mouse spiders. Both species are native to Australia and are considered dangerous, but their venom acts in distinct ways.

Venom Comparison

Funnel-web spiders (Atrax genus) possess venom known for its extremely fast-acting and potentially lethal neurotoxins. This venom can affect the human nervous system within minutes.
Mouse spiders (Missulena genus), though similar in appearance and habitat, produce venom with comparable chemical properties, but they are generally less aggressive toward humans.

Interaction and Treatment

Despite their potent toxins, both species’ bites are treatable using the same antivenom developed for funnel-web spiders. Fortunately, severe or fatal cases remain rare due to quick medical intervention and effective first-aid protocols.

Experts note that “the funnel-web spider remains one of the most venomous spiders in the world, but effective antivenom has dramatically reduced deaths since its introduction.”

Summary

Both spiders have powerful venoms, but the funnel-web spider poses the greater threat due to its aggressive behavior and faster-acting toxins, while medical advances have largely mitigated lethal outcomes.

Author’s summary: The funnel-web spider’s venom remains more dangerous than the mouse spider’s, though modern antivenom effectively prevents most fatalities.

DEADLY VENOMOUS with Corey Wild on MSN — 2025-12-01