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.