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DESCRIPTION
The brown recluse spider (Loxosceles spp.) is a poisonous spider that is light brown
in
color. It is about 1/2 inch in length, has a violin-shaped marking on the
thorax (mid-section) and is sometimes called a fiddleback spider due to
the unique markings. The brown recluse spider received its name because of its
color and reclusive behavior. These spiders make an irregular and sticky web that is
used for shelter rather than for trapping insects.
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BIOLOGY
There are seven species of brown recluse spider that are a health concern in
the United States. Though active throughout the year, they often go unnoticed because of their reclusive habits.
Adults may be found in dark,
secluded indoor places that are dry, cluttered, undisturbed and contain a
supply of insects for food. They are most commonly found behind baseboards,
under tables and chairs, in the basement,
crawlspace, attic, infesting cedar
shake roofs, and in garages and
sheds. Another common hiding place for a brown recluse is in garments
that are left hanging undisturbed for some time and in the linens of beds
that have been unoccupied for a long while. Bites often occur when the
spider is trapped in shoes or clothing, rolled on while in bed, and
encountered when cleaning storage areas.
The brown recluses venom is a cytotoxin that attacks the cells of flesh
and produces necrosis or dead tissue in humans. Though fatalities from
the venom are very rare, the reaction to the venom depends on the amount of and
individual sensitivity to the toxin. The bite is not usually
felt, but a stinging sensation may develop shortly after, followed by intense pain.
The reaction, however, may not occur until an hour or more after the bite.
The
bitten area will first develop a small, white blister and enlarge to the size of
a silver dollar as the venom attacks and kills the tissue in the affected
area. Eventually, the affected tissue will die and leave a sunken,
ulcerated sore. The healing process is slow, generally six to eight weeks. If bitten, call a physician or go to the emergency room immediately.
If possible, exterminate the
spider and take it along for identification purposes. Though no
antitoxin is available, prompt medical treatment can prevent severe reaction
and minimize the extent of damaged tissue and eventual scarring.
SOLUTION
To avoid getting bitten by the brown recluse, shake out unworn
or stored shoes and clothes before wearing, check bed linens of unoccupied
beds and wear leather gloves when working
around potential habitats. Use caution around spider webs in basements
and crawlspaces. If a brown recluse is encountered, contact a pest
control professional.
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Household Pests
Spiders Black Widow
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