University student caught trying to smuggle hundreds of insects and spiders out of Australia

A university student has been fined $35,000 after attempting to smuggle over 100 insects and spiders out of Australia.

The student named Qiran Zhang was stopped at Sydney International Airport, and upon investigation he was found to have 125 different specimens in his luggage.

This included a carabid beetle, a giant rainforest centipede, a banded desert centipede, banded huntsman spiders and an atlas rainforest beetle.

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Up to 76 of the specimens found were of regulated native species.

Under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act, exporting native wildlife without a permit is illegal.

Those found guilty could face penalties of up to 10 years imprisonment, a fine of up to $330,000, or both.

Ultimately, Zhang pleaded guilty to all charges, was convicted and fined.

The still live animals were sent to Taronga Wildlife Hospital in Sydney for care and identification.

It is not known how many survived, but the Australian Department of Environment reminded Australians many insects do not survive illegal trade.

"Legal export pathways exist. This protects animal welfare, supports ethical supply chains, and reduces demand for black market trade," they said in a statement.

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