Two Queensland Park Rangers have used their Spidey senses to help scientists conduct rare research on the spider which earned itself the nickname, the assassin spider.
The Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service (QPWS) park rangers, Chris Keates and Steve Moss guided researchers from the Queensland Museum through Conway National Park to study the newly discovered species of pelican spider.
The Whitsunday Hinterland Pelican Spider is best known for its odd pelican-like appearance and cunning predatory skills, with long spear-like legs which they use to trap and kill their prey of choice – other small spiders.
By providing guidance and advice to scientists navigating various sites within Conway National Park, the rangers assisted the groundbreaking research to be completed.
Their expertise in the local area was pivotal in navigating the terrain, allowing the scientists access to the necessary nooks and crannies to find and study the spiders.
QPWS park ranger Chris Keates says his colleague Steve Moss knows Conway National Park extensively and was able to provide advice and guidance to the scientists.
"We would point them in the right direction. Steve has been working within Conway National Park for decades, so he knows the area and its native flora and fauna like the back of his hand," Mr Keates said.
"It is our privilege to work here every day and conducting research into the area's unique native wildlife is a great step forward for science, so we were more than happy to welcome and assist the scientists."
Queensland Chief Scientist Professor Kerrie Wilson says this project underscores the importance of partnerships between the Queensland Government and external scientists to increase scientific knowledge.
"Our combined efforts allowed us to achieve our collective objective of the documentation and protection of biodiversity in Queensland.
"This significant body of research into the recently discovered species of Austrarchaea andersoni is an excellent demonstration of what can be achieved when we combine our resources and expertise to further our efforts in scientific exploration.
"QPWS park rangers have unmatched knowledge of the national parks and protected areas they manage. Working within the land, every day for years, enables them to understand the area and its plants and animals, which can be used to assist expert researchers.
"Through continued collaborative efforts with iconic scientific establishments such as the Queensland Museum, we can continue to accelerate Queensland's scientific excellence, striving towards even more research outcomes to protect and preserve our native wildlife."
