Aganippe species
Spotted Trapdoor Spider Identification in Australia
Stocky southern Australian trapdoor spider with a strongly arched carapace and pale hairless abdominal spots, usually linked with a concealed soil burrow.
Usually local pain riskSpotted or sigillate trapdoor spiders are useful to compare with dull brown trapdoor spiders in southern Australia. Pale hairless abdominal spots can be a clue in a clear photograph, but species-level identification is difficult and the camouflaged burrow door may be easier to notice than the spider.
Quick identification
- Stocky brown mygalomorph body
- Four to six pale hairless spots may show on the abdomen
- Strongly arched carapace in side view
- Soil or leaf-litter trapdoor burrow in southern Australia
What to check next
Photograph the spider and burrow from a safe distance without lifting the door or probing the retreat. Compare with brown trapdoor, wishbone and mouse spiders.
When to seek medical help
Avoid handling. Bites may cause local pain or swelling; seek medical advice if symptoms persist or are concerning. Use emergency guidance if a funnel-web or mouse spider cannot be ruled out after a bite.
Where it is usually seen
Dry woodland, scrub, gardens and southern Australian soils, where a silk-and-soil or leaf-litter door conceals the burrow.