What is a "black widow"?

A black widow is a venomous spider belonging to the Latrodectus genus. It is known for its distinctive appearance, with a glossy black body and a red hourglass-shaped marking on its abdomen. Female black widows are larger and more venomous than males. Their venom contains neurotoxins that can be dangerous to humans, although bites are relatively rare. Black widows are found in various parts of the world, particularly in temperate regions. They are known for their unique reproductive behavior, as females often consume males after mating. Caution should be exercised when encountering a black widow, as their venom can cause severe symptoms and complications if left untreated.