by Larry Darter

Created on: January 07, 2010   Last Updated: January 08, 2010

Given the warm and dry climate, Texas is a perfect habitat for all kind of spiders.  In fact, according to John A. Jackman, Professor and Extension Entomologist, Texas A&M University, there are nearly 900 species of spiders in Texas.  Surprisingly only two of those species are considered poisonous to humans, recluse spiders and window spiders.  As someone once observed, “poisonous spiders” is something of a misnomer in that a spider could only be considered poisonous to humans if ingested.  More accurately then spiders dangerous to humans should be termed most venomous. 

Venomous Spiders in Texas 

Venomous spiders inject venom when biting.  This is what can make a spider dangerous to humans.  The two venomous species of spiders found in Texas are recluse spiders and window spiders.   As noted by Professor Jackman, five different species of recluse spiders are found in Texas. Of these only Loxosceles reclusa (brown recluse spider) and Loxosceles rufescens are considered venomous and harmful to people.  Still, Jackman advises that to be on the safe side all recluse spiders should be regarded as dangerous and avoided. 

Similarly to recluse spiders, there are many species of widow spiders in Texas (generally known as “black widows” since most are commonly black in color).  All species of black widows in Texas are venomous and considered poisonous but the most dangerous spider species in Texas are the Latrodectus mactans (Southern Black Widow). 

Brown Recluse Spider in Texas 

As the name suggests brown reclusespiders are reclusive, preferring dark undisturbed habitats both indoors and outdoors.  They may be found in such places as attics, basements, closets, cellars and woodpiles.  Brown recluses are not aggressive and usually only bite when touched or disturbed. 

The effects of a brown recluse bite depend on the amount of venom injected.  A bite can result in a painful deep wound that takes a prolonged time to heal.  The venom of this spider kills the surrounding tissue affected by the venom.  Bites symptoms begin with a white blister and localized swelling that progresses to redness and tissue that is painful to the touch.  Some bite victim experience symptoms like fever, chills and nausea but these are not considered common.  Bites are infrequently fatal but can be especially dangerous to children and the elderly. 

• 1
• 2
• Next Page >>