Black widow spider

Black widow spiders (family Theridiidae, genus Latrodectus) are notorious for their neurotoxic[?] venom. They are large spiders found throughout the world and are commonly associated with urban habitats or agricultural areas. Although the common name 'black widow spider' is applied to several members of the Latrodectus genus, there are 31 recognised species in the genus and include the Australian red-back and brown widow.