| Six-eyed sand spider | |
|---|---|
| Scientific classification | |
| Kingdom: | Animalia |
| Phylum: | Arthropoda |
| Class: | Arachnida |
| Order: | Araneae |
| Family: | Sicariidae |
| Genus: | Sicarius |
| Species: | S. hahni |
| Binomial name | |
| Sicarius hahni Walckenaer, 1847 |
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| Synonyms | |
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Hexomma hahnii |
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The six-eyed sand spider (Sicarius hahni) is a medium-sized spider with body measuring 8 to 15 mm and legs spanning up to 50 mm,[1]:p.24 found in deserts and other sandy places in southern Africa. It is a member of the Sicariidae family; close relatives may be found in both Africa and in South America, and its near cousins, the recluses (Loxosceles), are found worldwide. Due to its flattened stance and laterigrade legs, it is also sometimes known as the six-eyed crab spider. Bites by Sicarius to humans are uncommon; there are no proven cases and only two suspected cases where the culprit was never identified. Sicarius bites have been experimentally shown as lethal to rabbits within 5 to 12 hours.[1]:p.25 The genus name Sicarius is Latin for 'murderer', from sica, a curved dagger. The species was described by Carl Wilhelm Hahn.
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This spider buries itself in the sand and strikes from ambush at prey that wanders too closely. Sand particles adhere to cuticles on its abdomen, thus acting as a natural camouflage if uncovered. If disturbed, it will run a short distance and bury itself again.
Toxicology studies have demonstrated that the venom is particularly potent, with a powerful hemolytic/necrotoxic effect, causing blood vessel leakage, thinning of the blood and tissue destruction. Sicarius bite treatment should be directed, as with all cytotoxic bites, at prevention of secondary infection and combating Disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) if it develops.[1]:p.25 No anti-venom exists for it. However, there has only been one confirmed death from it.