Latrodectus menavodi (Madagascar widow) FEMALE

Latrodectus menavodi – Madagascar Black Widow

Origin: Found in Madagascar.

Size: Females: 1–1.5 cm body length (about 3–4 cm leg span).

Males: much smaller, around 3–4 mm.

Lifespan: Females: 1.5–3 years

Males: only a few months after reaching maturity.

Lifestyle: Web-building species.

Constructs irregular, tangled webs close to the ground in dry or semi-arid areas.

Appearance: Females: Glossy black body with a distinctive red or orange hourglass marking on the underside of the abdomen.

Males: Small, pale, and less striking in appearance.

Temperament: Shy and reclusive, avoids confrontation.

Not aggressive, but females will bite if provoked or threatened.

Venom is medically significant (neurotoxic, like other widow spiders). Extreme caution required.

Care & Habitat (for advanced keepers only):

Enclosure: Small to medium-sized container with vertical and horizontal anchor points for webbing.

Substrate: Dry soil or sand, optional since most time is spent in the web.

Temperature: 72–82°F (22–28°C).

Humidity: 50–60%, moderate with good airflow.

Feeding: Small insects such as crickets, roaches, or flies.

Interesting Note:

Like other widow spiders, the female sometimes cannibalizes the male after mating.

Their venom is potent, but bites are rare in captivity due to their shy nature and preference for retreat.