widow spider

The black widow spider, belonging to the genus Latrodectus, is a type of comb-footed spider known for the venomous bite of its females. These spiders are found globally and are named for the female's tendency to consume the male after mating.1

Black widows are classified within the class Arachnida and the order Araneae. They construct large, loosely organized webs. Using a specialized comb-like row of bristles on their hind legs, they adeptly fling silk to ensnare prey, which typically consists of insects. The female lays numerous egg masses, each containing 250–750 eggs, which hatch in 14 to 30 days.1

While not aggressive, female black widows may bite to defend their eggs or young. Their venom contains a potent neurotoxin that can cause muscle stiffness, nausea, and difficulty breathing in humans. Though bites are rarely fatal, they can be dangerous to young children and the elderly. The southern black widow (Latrodectus mactans) is a common species in North America, characterized by a shiny black body and a distinctive hourglass marking on its abdomen.1