Latrodectus pallidus

spider

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Last updated

June 30, 2026

Quick Summary

Latrodectus pallidus is a species of spider, commonly known as the pale or white widow spider. It belongs to the genus Latrodectus, which includes other well-known species like the black widow. These spiders are characterized by an hourglass-shaped marking on their abdomen, though this can vary in appearance.1

While the females of the Latrodectus genus are known for their venomous bite, L. pallidus is found in southern Europe, North Africa, and southwestern Asia. Like other comb-footed spiders, they spin cobwebs and prey on insects, using their venom to immobilize and digest their meals. Though their venom contains a nerve toxin, bites to humans are rare, and most victims recover without severe complications.1

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black widow
Major species
…the white widow spider (L. pallidus) are found in southern Europe, northern Africa, and southwestern Asia, whereas the range of the European black widow, or karakurt (L. tredecimguttatus), extends from the western Mediterranean region to Central Asia.
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…the white widow spider (L. pallidus) are found in southern Europe, northern Africa, and southwestern Asia, whereas the range of the European black widow, or karakurt (L. tredecimguttatus), extends from the western Mediterranean region to Central Asia.
Read More