Lampona

Lampona is a genus of Australian spiders belonging to the family Lamponidae. These spiders are commonly known as White-tailed Spiders. The genus was first described by Ludwig Koch in 1873. Lampona spiders are medium-sized, with adult females typically measuring between 10 and 24 millimeters in body length, and males being smaller. Their bodies are usually dark brown to black, and they are characterized by a distinctive pale or white marking on the tip of their abdomen, which gives them their common name.

These spiders are widely distributed across Australia, found in a variety of habitats including urban areas, gardens, and forests. They are nocturnal hunters, actively foraging for prey at night. Their diet primarily consists of other spiders, but they will also consume insects. Lampona spiders are often found in sheltered locations during the day, such as under bark, rocks, or leaf litter, and sometimes in homes.

While often feared due to a persistent myth that their bite causes severe tissue necrosis, scientific evidence does not support this claim. Lampona bites are generally considered to be of mild to moderate medical significance. Symptoms are typically localized pain, redness, and swelling at the bite site. Systemic effects are rare, and serious complications are uncommon. However, as with any spider bite, it is advisable to seek medical attention if symptoms are severe or persistent. Lampona spiders play a role in controlling populations of other invertebrates in their environment.