Latrodectus mactans
Latrodectus • Theridiidae
The classic glossy-black widow with the red hourglass — a hardy, low-maintenance web-builder, but strictly for experienced, cautious keepers: its venom is medically significant (latrodectism), so it demands escape-proof housing and absolutely no handling. Give a tall enclosure with anchor points for its irregular cobweb, room temperature, occasional misting for water, and crickets or flies. Shy and reluctant to bite, but treat with full respect. Solitary.
Temperature
70-85°F
Humidity
50-65%
Prey size: flying insects, crickets
Type
cobweb (web)
Adult Size
female 8-13 mm, male ~4 mm
Growth Rate
fast
Native Region
Southeastern USA
Temperament
shy and reclusive; venom is MEDICALLY SIGNIFICANT — no handling
Track its feedings, molts, and growth with Tarantuverse — our free companion app for keepers. Create an account in seconds.
Start tracking — it's free →Or explore Tarantuverse firstKeep its whole story in one place — log feedings, molts, and growth, get molt and feeding reminders, and watch it grow over time. Tarantuverse is a free husbandry tracker for keepers, on web and mobile.