Steatoda nobilis (false widow spider)

Steatoda nobilis is one of a group of spiders commonly known as false widow spiders (genus Steatoda) because of their general resemblance to the more notorious black widow spiders (genus Latrodectus).

Steatoda nobilis has been established near the south coast of England for over a century with strongholds on the Dorset and Hampshire coast.

The false widow spider is thought to be repeatedly reintroduced at ports in imports of bananas.

The similarity to the notorious black widow spiders means they often cause concern when found in and around homes in the UK.

Species detail

Bites

Adult spiders are capable of biting humans. Spiders are not aggressive and most injuries to humans are defensive bites delivered when a spider becomes unintentionally squeezed or pinched.

Steatoda nobilis the false widow spider will only bite defensively when under attack.

The bite of the false widow spider can be medically significant in humans, but usually without any long-lasting effects.

Reports from those bitten describe a certain amount of pain, which often radiates along the limb or part of the body where bitten, and often a degree of swelling in the affected part. Some describe fever and a general feeling of being unwell. These symptoms may last for a couple of days but the total effect is unlikely to be more serious than that.

As for bites from other species in the genus Steatoda, it can produce a set of symptoms known as steatodism.

More serious symptoms have occasionally been reported, but are likely to be the exceptional reaction of individuals to the venom. It is always advisable to seek medical attention if symptoms persist.

Taxonomy

Learn about the appearance of Steatoda nobilis and what features distinguish it from other, similar looking species.
Distribution and habitat

Read about the areas of the world that Steatoda nobilis is known from and the type of habitat it is commonly found in.
Biology

Find out about the size of male and female Steatoda nobilis. Learn about its lifecycle, life expectancy, reproductive patterns and how it achieves local and long distance dispersal.
Conservation

Discover the threats facing the ongoing survival of Steatoda nobilis in the UK and trends in the populations of the species.
References

Get reference material for Steatoda nobilis.