Studying Blind Spiders and Cave Life with Dr Jess Marsh
Scientific research is part of what we do at Ancient Land Tours. On our latest Nullarbor field trip, led by Dr Jess Marsh, an ARC Fellow at Adelaide University, we surveyed more than twenty cave sites for undescribed troglobitic invertebrates, including blind spiders. These are animals adapted to living entirely underground.
These ongoing collaborations with scientists help build long-term knowledge of the Nullarbor and support efforts to ensure this remarkable landscape is understood, protected and valued.
Our collaborations have contributed to the discovery of the world’s first known eyeless spider wasp, reporting on threats to the Nullarbor, and published research on its blind cave spiders. The discoveries have also attracted wider attention, including coverage by First Dog on the Moon.
Planning scientific fieldwork in the region? Learn more about our research and specialist field support on the Nullarbor and in Far West South Australia.
Research and Further Reading
ABC News: World’s only known eyeless wasp discovered mummified in Nullarbor cave
25 June 2025
Caves Australia: Blind Stealth Predators of the Nullarbor (Issue 227, PDF)
February 2024
The Conversation: Why the Nullarbor’s cultural history, cave systems and unique animals deserve better protection
10 October 2023
The Guardian: First Dog on the Moon explores the hidden life beneath the Nullarbor
30 June 2025
Insects: Biology, ecology and conservation of blind cave spiders in the genus Troglodiplura
10 May 2023