False Widow Spider
Steatoda nobilis
This record describes Steatoda nobilis (species). Recorded family: Theridiidae. Recorded order: Araneae.
Identification and Appearance
Sometimes known as the Noble False Widow spider - adults are usually larger than both Steatoda bipunctata and Steatoda grossa - the body length of an adult female false widow spider is around 15 millimetres, males are a little smaller. Maximum leg length of both sexes is about 25 millimetres. The abdomen is usually reddish and there is nearly always a distinct cream or whitish band around the front of the abdomen. Some paler markings are also present on most specimens. if a 'typical' specimen with a good image Typical specimens can be identified from a good image, others may require examination of the genitalia. Steatoda nobilis is synanthropic and most commonly found in and around domestic and commercial premises, including conservatories, public toilet blocks, garages and sheds. The males are mature in the summer and autumn, the females probably throughout the year. It constructs a scaffold web that differs from others of the genus in the exceptional strength of the silk and in the tubular retreat that is at least partly concealed in a deep crack or hole. In spite of press hysteria, bites are rare and in most people little different to a bee sting. Believed to be increasing its range further north.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Arachnida
- Order
- Araneae (Spiders)
- Family
- Theridiidae (Cobweb Spiders)
- Genus
- Steatoda
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Steatoda nobilis is synanthropic and most commonly found in and around domestic and commercial premises, including conservatories, public toilet blocks, garages and sheds.
Seasonal Activity
The males are mature in the summer and autumn, the females probably throughout the year.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
It constructs a scaffold web that differs from others of the genus in the exceptional strength of the silk and in the tubular retreat that is at least partly concealed in a deep crack or hole. In spite of press hysteria, bites are rare and in most people little different to a bee sting.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Believed to be increasing its range further north.
About Spiders: the wider group
Order-level background for Araneae, the group containing Steatoda nobilis. Species-specific details appear above.
Group overview
As of 2023, 51,673 spider species in 136 families have been recorded, though an estimated 150,000 species exist. Spiders rank 7th in total species diversity among all organism orders. Only 0.5% of spider species pose any risk to human health.
Ecological role of the group
Spider venom contains complex peptides with diverse pharmacological activities, making them valuable for drug development research. Spiders produce up to 7 types of silk from specialized glands. Spider silk genes have been inserted into mammals and plants for biotech applications.
Economic and practical significance of the group
The global spider community kills an estimated 400-800 million tons of prey annually (2017 study). Spiders provide billions of dollars in natural pest control for agriculture. Spider silk is 5× stronger than steel of the same diameter, driving a biomaterials research industry.
Recorded sources for this group: World Spider Catalog, PNAS, Nature, ScienceDirect. Imported estimates may describe particular regions or reporting periods.
Photos of False Widow Spider (10)
Frequently Asked Questions About False Widow Spider
What is False Widow Spider?
False Widow Spider (Steatoda nobilis) is a species in the family Theridiidae, within the order Araneae.
How big is False Widow Spider?
of an adult female false widow spider is around 15 millimetres, males are a little smaller. Maximum leg length of both sexes is about 25 millimetres. The abdomen is usually reddish and there is nearly always a distinct cream or whitish band around the front of the abdomen. Some paler markings are also present on most specimens.
Where is False Widow Spider found?
Habitat: Steatoda nobilis is synanthropic and most commonly found in and around domestic and commercial premises, including conservatories, public toilet blocks, garages and sheds.
When is False Widow Spider active?
False Widow Spider: seasonal activity - The males are mature in the summer and autumn, the females probably throughout the year..
What is the life cycle of a False Widow Spider?
It constructs a scaffold web that differs from others of the genus in the exceptional strength of the silk and in the tubular retreat that is at least partly concealed in a deep crack or hole. In spite of press hysteria, bites are rare and in most people little different to a bee sting.