Latrodectus, commonly known as the black widow spider, is a member of the family Theridiidae. In the Comunidad Valenciana, this spider is often referred to as the viuda negra. It is a highly recognized arachnid due to its glossy black body and the distinctive red hourglass marking on the underside of its abdomen.

Habitat:

• The black widow spider is typically found in warm environments and can often be located in dimly lit, sheltered places such as woodpiles, sheds, and under stones or debris.
• In the Comunidad Valenciana, these spiders can inhabit both rural and urban areas, adapting well to human presence.

Characteristics:

• Females are larger than males, with a body size ranging from 8-10 mm for females and 3-5 mm for males.
• Although their venom is potent, bites to humans are rare and only occur when the spider feels threatened.
• Females are known for their characteristic red hourglass marking, while males may have red and white patterns on their backs.

Behavior:

• Latrodectus spiders are nocturnal hunters, primarily feeding on insects.
• These spiders build irregular, tangled webs where they wait for prey to become ensnared.

In the Comunidad Valenciana, awareness of the viuda negra can help in avoiding potential encounters, and observing it contributes to understanding the rich biodiversity of the region.