
Community identification
Brown widow
Latrodectus geometricus
- Order & Family
- Araneae: Theridiidae
- Size
- Females range from 1/2 to 5/8 inches; males are much smaller, around 1/8 to 1/4 inches.
Natural Habitat
Tropical and subtropical regions; often found in sheltered, urban areas such as under outdoor furniture, in garages, or in crawl spaces.
Diet & Feeding
Primarily insects and other small arthropods caught in its messy, three-dimensional web.
Behavior Patterns
Generally nocturnal and reclusive, staying near its web. Known for being less aggressive than black widows and producing distinctive, spiky egg sacs.
Risks & Benefits
Possesses neurotoxic venom; while potentially painful, bites are usually less severe than those of the black widow. Benefits the ecosystem as a natural pest controller.