Widow (Latrodectus)

Meet the Latrodectus spiders, often known as true widows! They’re part of the cobweb spider family. By July 2017, there were 31 types of them, living everywhere except Antarctica. Some, like the northern black widow, western black widow, and southern black widow are even in the U.S. and southern Canada. Stick around for cool facts about these spiders!

Scientific Classification

• Family: Theridiidae
• Genus: Latrodectus

Spiders Belonging To This Genus 

Latrodectus antheratus	Latrodectus apicalis	Red Widow (Latrodectus bishopi)
Latrodectus cinctus	Latrodectus corallinus	Latrodectus curacaviensis
Latrodectus dahli	Latrodectus diaguita	Latrodectus elegans
Latrodectus erythromelas	Brown Widow (Latrodectus geometricus)	Latrodectus hasselti
Western Black Widow (Latrodectus hesperus)	Latrodectus hystrix	Latrodectus indistinctus
Latrodectus karrooensis	Latrodectus katipo	Latrodectus lilianae
Southern Black Widow (Latrodectus mactans)	Latrodectus menavodi	Latrodectus mirabilis
Latrodectus obscurior	White Widow (Latrodectus pallidus)	Latrodectus quartus
Latrodectus renivulvatus	Latrodectus revivensis	Latrodectus rhodesiensis
Latrodectus thoracicus	Latrodectus tredecimguttatus	Latrodectus variegatus
Northern Black Widow (Latrodectus variolus)	Latrodectus corallines

Physical Description & Identification

Adults

• Size: They vary in size; for instance, the black widow spiders are 3mm to 10 mm (0.12 inches to 0.39 inches) long. The red widow, on the other hand, has a length of approximately 12.7 mm (0.5 inches).

• Color: The females have a shiny black or dark brown body with an orange or red pattern on the underside (ventral part) of their abdomen. Some, however, possess a pale brown coloration, while few may not possess any bright markings. The males display red and white or red spots or stripes on the upper (dorsal) abdominal area.
• Other Characteristic Features: The females often show an hourglass pattern on their abdomen.

Eggs

The eggs remain wrapped in a pear-shaped or spherical or spherical silken sac.

Spiderlings

The juveniles mostly resemble the males in terms of their color patterns.

The Web

They have an irregular, messy, sticky, tangled web and remain hanging in an upside-down posture in a bid to capture their prey. Their eyesight is poor, and they mostly rely on vibrations that they would sense through their webs.

Are Widow Spiders Venomous?

Yes, Widow spiders are venomous. Their venom can be strong and affect humans if bitten. Of all the species belonging to this genus, the black widow is the most dangerous since their venom has a substance named latrotoxin, which can cause severe symptoms.

Can Widow Spiders Bite?

Widow spiders can bite, especially if they feel threatened. Their bite can be uncomfortable, so it’s best to be careful around them.

Ecological Importance and Behavior of Widow Spider

Latrodectus spiders play a significant role in controlling the population of small insects, contributing to the ecological balance. They exhibit solitary behavior and are known for their remarkable web-spinning skills, creating intricate and sticky webs for prey capture. Their venom, while potent, is a crucial tool for subduing prey, ensuring their survival in their respective habitats.

Natural Predator & Prey-Predator Dynamics: Birds, wasps, and certain fly species are known natural predators of Latrodectus spiders, creating a dynamic balance in the ecosystem. The spiders’ venomous bite and agility play a crucial role in their survival, aiding them in capturing prey while evading predators.

Relationship with Humans: While their venomous nature can pose risks to humans, incidents of Latrodectus spider bites are relatively rare, and with proper medical attention, severe consequences are preventable. Awareness and caution are advised when in areas where these spiders may reside, fostering a coexistent relationship between humans and these fascinating arachnids.

Quick Facts

Lifespan	Approximately 1 to 3 years
Distribution	Parts of Asia, North America, South America, Australia, and Africa
Habitat	Dark, desolate places like rock and woodpiles, fallen branches, as well as outhouses, basements, garages, and sheds.
Predators	Wasps, flies, and birds
Diet	Small insects

Did You Know

• Spiders of the Steatoda genus are often confused with widow spiders since they are often called false widows. The former is not as harmful to humans as the latter.

In conclusion, the Latrodectus spiders, with their striking appearance, venomous nature, and intricate webs, stand as one of the most fascinating members of the spider world.