Stephen Colbert Spider's Genome Is 50% Larger Than Human DNA, UC Davis Researchers Find

Aptostichus stephencolberti, a trapdoor spider named after comedian Stephen Colbert, has a genome about 50% larger than the human genome, according to researchers at the University of California, Davis. The spider, roughly the size of a quarter, is common in California and often spotted in autumn when spiders reach peak size after summer feeding. Its unusually large genome—among the largest ever sequenced in arachnids—could help scientists understand genome evolution and the role of repetitive DNA. The findings highlight how even small, overlooked species can hold significant genetic surprises. As genomic sequencing becomes cheaper, expect more discoveries from unexpected creatures.