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Steatoda grossa
Steatoda grossa
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Steatoda grossa
Female
Male
Scientific classification Edit this classification
Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Arthropoda
Subphylum: Chelicerata
Class: Arachnida
Order: Araneae
Infraorder: Araneomorphae
Family: Theridiidae
Genus: Steatoda
Species:
S. grossa
Binomial name
Steatoda grossa
Synonyms[2]
List of synonyms
  • Aranea nocturna Schrank, 1781
  • Theridion pulchellum Lucas, 1838
  • Theridium grossum C. L. Koch, 1838
  • Theridion versutum Blackwall, 1846
  • Eucharia zonata Ohlert, 1867
  • Theridion coeliferum L. Koch, 1867
  • Theridium grossa Blackwall, 1867
  • Theridium nicoluccii Canestrini & Pavesi, 1868
  • Steatoda versuta Thorell, 1870
  • Theridium coeliferum L. Koch, 1872
  • Steatoda pulchella Thorell, 1875
  • Theridium nitidum Holmberg, 1876
  • Theridium domesticum Holmberg, 1876
  • Lithyphantes grossus Pavesi, 1878
  • Steatoda pusulosa Keyserling, 1878
  • Teutana grossa Simon, 1881
  • Teutana nitida Keyserling, 1884
  • Teutana zonata Keyserling, 1884
  • Theridion sericum Urquhart, 1886
  • Asagena zonata F. O. Pickard-Cambridge, 1902
  • Theridion domesticum Fedotov, 1912
  • Steatoda punctilineata Mello-Leitão, 1939
  • Teutana modesta Bryant, 1948
  • Steatoda modesta Levi, 1962
  • Steatoda serica Roberts, 1995
  • Achaearanea tepidariorum Roberts, 1995

Steatoda grossa, commonly known as the cupboard spider, the dark comb-footed spider, the brown house spider (in Australia), or the false widow or false black widow (though several other species are known by these names), is a common species of spider in the genus Steatoda.

As two of this spider's common names indicate, the spider superficially resembles, and is frequently confused for, the black widow and other venomous spiders in the genus Latrodectus.

Distribution and habitat

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S. grossa is a cosmopolitan species. It is native to Europe and much of temperate Asia. It has been introduced to North and South America, Macaronesia, Africa, New Zealand and Hawaii.[2]

In South Africa, the species has been sampled from the Grassland, Fynbos, Nama Karoo, and Savanna biomes.[3]

Life style

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Steatoda grossa constructs three-dimensional webs in dark places.[3]

As is common with other members of the family Theridiidae, S. grossa constructs a cobweb, i.e. an irregular tangle of sticky silken fibers. As with other web weavers, these spiders have very poor eyesight and depend mostly on vibrations reaching them through their webs to orient themselves to prey or warn them of larger animals that could pose a danger. They are not aggressive, and most injuries to humans are due to defensive bites delivered when a spider gets unintentionally squeezed or pinched. It is possible that some bites may result when a spider mistakes a finger thrust into its web for its normal prey, but ordinarily intrusion by any large creature will cause these spiders to flee.

Venom

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The bite of S. grossa is minor in humans without any long-lasting effects. Symptoms of bites include blistering at the site of the bite and pain. A few cases with fever, nausea, sweating, and/or a general malaise lasting for several days. Latrodectus antivenom was shown to be effective in treating bites from Steatoda grossa after it was mistakenly administered to a S. grossa bite victim who was erroneously believed to have been bitten by the far more dangerous redback.[4]

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A related species, commonly found in North America, is Steatoda borealis. This spider is similar to S. grossa in shape, but slightly smaller, and is generally found in colder climates. This spider can be identified by colored markings on the dorsal side of its abdomen rather than on the ventral side.

Description

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Like black widows, the female S. grossa is 6-10.5 mm in length and dark colored with a round, bulbous abdomen. Typical coloration ranges from purplish brown to black, with light-colored markings. Unlike black widows, redbacks, and other Latrodectus species, S. grossa does not have a bright red hourglass pattern or any other bright, distinctive markings. Like many spiders, the male is sometimes smaller but can many times be nearly as long as the females. It measures 4.1-10.0 mm in length and is thinner than the female. The two sexes are colored similarly; however, the sexually mature male almost always has lighter, more reddish-coloured legs than the female. S. grossa spiders may shed up to six times (instars) before reaching maturity. According to Charles Hogue (Insects of the Los Angeles Basin, 1993), it reportedly preys on black widows. They can go several months without feeding, provided they have access to water. A well-fed female can lay three or more egg sacs each year. Each egg sac typically contains between 40-100 eggs. The mother can often be observed watching her eggs for hours, even days, at a time once the eggs start changing color and grow close to hatching. At normal household temp/humidity, an egg will usually hatch within a month of being laid. The spiderlings are independent from time of hatch.

Female S. grossa spiders can live up to six years; the typical lifespan for the male is 1-1.5 years. Males often die shortly after mating.

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Steatoda grossa was selected by director Sam Raimi to represent the radioactive spider whose bite transforms Peter Parker in the 2002 movie Spider-Man. The spider used for filming was painted with red and blue makeup.[5]

Footnotes

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References

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Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia
from Grokipedia
Steatoda grossa, commonly known as the false black widow or cupboard spider, is a species of cobweb in the family Theridiidae, native to and characterized by its rounded abdomen that varies in color from pale cream or reddish-brown to dark purplish-black, often featuring paler markings such as a cardiac spot and chevron patterns on the dorsal surface. Females typically measure 6.5–10.5 mm in body length, while males are smaller at 4–6 mm, with both sexes having relatively long, reddish-brown legs and lacking the distinctive red hourglass marking of the true black widow ( spp.). This species is cosmopolitan in distribution, having been introduced from its native range in western and to regions including (particularly coastal Atlantic, Gulf, and Pacific states, as well as areas around the ), , , and parts of and through human activity. It thrives in synanthropic habitats, commonly inhabiting human structures such as homes, garages, sheds, attics, and cellars, where it constructs irregular, tangled cobwebs in dark, sheltered corners; outdoors, it may be found under rocks or debris but is rarely encountered away from buildings. Behaviorally, S. grossa is nocturnal and sedentary, with females exhibiting maternal care by guarding their egg sacs—typically producing three or more per season from May to July, each containing up to 200 or more —often remaining attentive to them for hours or days until the spiderlings disperse. occurs in spring, and males may reduce or remove parts of the female's web to signal presence and increase copulation chances, though is infrequent due to the species' moderate size dimorphism. While generally non-aggressive, S. grossa can deliver a bite to humans that causes mild to moderate pain, redness, swelling, and blistering, similar to a but potentially including , , or lethargy lasting up to 60 hours; symptoms typically resolve without medical intervention but medical advice is recommended if severe.

Taxonomy

Classification

Steatoda grossa belongs to the kingdom Animalia, phylum Arthropoda, class Arachnida, order Araneae, family Theridiidae, genus Steatoda, and species S. grossa. The species is placed in the family Theridiidae, commonly known as comb-footed spiders due to the presence of a distinctive row of strong, curved bristles on the tarsi of the fourth legs, which these spiders use to wrap prey in silk. This family encompasses over 2,600 species worldwide as of 2025, distinguished by their irregular, three-dimensional webs and the absence of a colulus in most genera. Steatoda grossa was originally described as Theridion grossum by in 1838, in volume 4 of Die Arachniden (p. 112, fig. 321), based on specimens from the Peloponnesus Peninsula, . Subsequent taxonomic revisions in the 19th and 20th centuries reclassified it into the Steatoda, reflecting refined distinctions within based on genitalic and somatic morphology, as documented in comprehensive spider catalogs.

Etymology and synonyms

The genus name Steatoda derives from the word steatos (στέατος), meaning "" or "," in reference to the plump, rounded typical of species in this . The specific grossa comes from Latin, translating to "large" or "thick," highlighting the species' relatively substantial size compared to many congeners. Steatoda grossa was originally described as Theridion grossum by C. L. Koch in 1838 and later transferred to the genus Steatoda, which had been established by Sundevall in 1833. This reclassification reflects broader taxonomic revisions within the Theridiidae family during the 19th century, as arachnologists refined generic boundaries based on morphological traits like web-building behavior and genital structures. Over time, the species accumulated several junior synonyms due to initial misplacements in other genera and regional descriptions, including Teutana grossa (C. L. Koch, 1843), Lithyphantes grossus (Blackwall, 1833), Asagena zonata (C. L. Koch, 1841), Eucharia zonata (Blackwall, 1833), Steatoda fulvo-lunulata (C. L. Koch, 1867), and Aranea nocturna (Schrank, 1781). These synonymies were largely resolved in the 20th century through comparative studies that consolidated nomenclature under Steatoda grossa, the currently accepted name per the World Spider Catalog.

Description

Morphology

Steatoda grossa exhibits a body length of 6-10 mm in females and 4-6 mm in males. The is typically brown to dark brown, while the legs are slender, shiny, and similarly colored with darker annular bands. The is notably bulbous and rounded, ranging from brown to purplish-black, often adorned with cream-colored speckles, zigzag patterns, or a pale longitudinal midline stripe; additional markings may include a frontal and occasional small or white spots. Key anatomical features include eight eyes arranged in two nearly straight or slightly recurved rows, small porrect , six spinnerets clustered at the abdomen's posterior end, and legs segmented into seven parts (coxa, , , , , metatarsus, and tarsus). Morphological variations occur across life stages, with juveniles displaying more vivid and distinct pale markings on the that tend to fade or become subdued following molts into adulthood. Unlike true black widows, S. grossa lacks a red hourglass pattern on the ventral .

Sexual dimorphism and identification

Steatoda grossa exhibits pronounced sexual size dimorphism, with adult females typically measuring 6–10.5 mm in body length and males ranging from 4–6 mm. This size difference arises from males maturing earlier and trading off body size for rapid development to increase mating opportunities. Females possess a more rounded and bulbous abdomen, often appearing globular and shiny, while males have slimmer abdomens, relatively longer legs, and distinct palpal bulbs on their pedipalps, which are enlarged in mature individuals for sperm transfer. Identification of S. grossa relies on its overall morphology: a dark brown to black and with pale, mottled or chevron-like markings on the dorsal surface, lacking the distinctive red hourglass ventral marking characteristic of species. Unlike orb-weaving spiders, S. grossa constructs irregular, tangled cobwebs in sheltered locations, aiding field distinction from orb web builders, though web type overlaps with spiders. It is frequently misidentified as the more notorious (noble false widow), but S. grossa is generally smaller and features two to three triangular chevron patterns on the rather than the cream-colored, skull-shaped markings of S. nobilis. For definitive identification, especially in ambiguous cases, microscopic examination of genitalia is essential. Females are diagnosed by the , which features a slender septum and simple sclerites. Males exhibit a with a small conductor and a notably long, thin , distinguishing S. grossa from closely related congeners. These genital structures provide reliable taxonomic keys, as external coloration varies widely from pale yellow-brown to nearly black.

Distribution and habitat

Native range

Steatoda grossa is native to and temperate , encompassing countries such as the , , , , , and in Europe, as well as , , , and in Asia, though it is absent from . The was first described in 1838 by from specimens collected in , with its native status confirmed by consistent historical records predating widespread human-mediated dispersal to other continents. In its native range, S. grossa occupies ecological niches in forests and other natural settings, commonly found under loose bark and in leaf litter, where it seeks out sheltered microhabitats for web construction and foraging.

Introduced range and synanthropy

Steatoda grossa, native to and temperate , has been widely introduced to other continents through human-mediated dispersal, primarily via international shipping and trade routes during the 19th and 20th centuries. In , it is established along coastal regions of the , including states bordering the Atlantic, Gulf, and Pacific Oceans, as well as in parts of such as and . The species has also become established in , where it is common in urban and peridomestic settings, and in since at least 1885. Additionally, introductions have occurred in parts of and , contributing to its . As a highly synanthropic species, S. grossa thrives in human-modified environments, particularly in and around buildings where it constructs webs in sheltered, undisturbed locations. It is frequently found in homes, garages, sheds, and basements, favoring dry and warm conditions that mimic its preferred microhabitats. This adaptation to urban and indoor settings has facilitated its establishment and spread in introduced regions, where it often occupies spaces with limited natural competitors. Today, it is well-established in urban areas across its introduced range, often coexisting with other arthropods.

Biology

Web construction and foraging

Steatoda grossa builds irregular, three-dimensional tangle webs, characteristic of the family, featuring a framework of supporting threads for prey capture. These cobweb-like structures are typically constructed in dark, sheltered sites such as building corners, crevices, under debris, or in human-made habitats like garages and sheds, where they provide protection from predators and environmental extremes. As a passive , S. grossa positions itself within or near its web and relies on mechanoreceptors to detect vibrations from entangled prey, such as small flying or crawling . Once alerted, the spider rapidly approaches the struggling victim and employs its tarsal comb—a specialized row of curved setae on the fourth tarsus—to fling bands over the prey, wrapping it repeatedly to immobilize it before feeding. This silk-wrapping technique allows capture of up to several times the spider's body size, though typical prey includes isopods (such as pill bugs), moths, , and other small arthropods; it has also been observed preying on other spiders, including black widows. The exhibits primarily nocturnal activity patterns, with heightened responsiveness at night when many prey are active, and it periodically inspects and repairs damaged sections of its web to maintain efficacy. Physical adaptations, including multiple spinnerets for producing varied types, support efficient web production and prey handling.

Reproduction and life cycle

In temperate regions, males of Steatoda grossa typically mature from late summer to fall, though can occur year-round in synanthropic habitats; they court females by jerking and vibrating the female's web to signal their presence and intent, reducing the risk of being mistaken for prey. This behavior carries a low risk of , occurring in approximately 5% of matings. Following successful mating, females produce multiple silken, spherical egg sacs, each containing 100 to 200 cream-colored eggs, which are anchored within or near the female's irregular web. The female guards these sacs attentively, often remaining nearby to protect them from predators until the spiderlings hatch after approximately 1 month. A single female can lay three or more such sacs per reproductive season, enabling substantial offspring production from one mating event. The life cycle of S. grossa progresses from to in approximately 4 to 5 months under favorable conditions, with females maturing after 130 to 150 days and males slightly earlier. In warm climates or indoor synanthropic habitats, multiple generations can occur annually due to the species' ability to complete development year-round. Females have a lifespan of up to 6 years, while males typically live 1 to 1.5 years and often die shortly after . Upon hatching, spiderlings emerge from the egg sac and disperse from the maternal web, with young individuals employing ballooning on silk threads carried by wind or walking to nearby sites to establish new territories and avoid competition or cannibalism.

Venom and human interactions

Venom composition

The venom of Steatoda grossa consists primarily of proteins and peptides, including homologs of α-latrotoxin and latrodectins, which exhibit structural and functional similarities to those found in the venom of Latrodectus species but with reduced potency, particularly toward vertebrates. An α-latrotoxin-like protein has been identified in S. grossa venom through western blotting with antibodies against black widow spider α-latrotoxin, demonstrating comparable but lower insecticidal activity on neuromuscular preparations compared to the Latrodectus counterpart. Similarly, latrodectins in S. grossa venom are small peptides that belong to the crustacean hyperglycemic hormone/ion transport peptide (CHH/ITP) family, a group of neuropeptides convergently recruited and diversified across spider venoms for neurotoxic effects. These neurotoxins primarily target nervous systems, inducing through mechanisms such as enhanced release, though their impact on neurons is notably weaker than in spiders. Phylogenetic analyses of latrodectin sequences from S. grossa venom gland cDNAs confirm their evolutionary origin within the ecdysozoan CHH/ITP family, highlighting a theridiid-specific diversification that occurred in the 2010s through transcriptomic studies. The is delivered via the spider's fangs during , with the small size of these structures limiting the injected quantity to modest amounts suitable for subduing prey.

Bite effects and medical significance

Bites from Steatoda grossa generally produce mild local effects comparable to a , manifesting as pain, redness, and swelling at the puncture site that typically resolve within 1 to 2 days without long-term consequences. Blistering or general may occasionally occur but remains self-limiting. Documented are rare, with no reported fatalities; however, in isolated instances, systemic symptoms akin to mild —such as severe pain, , and —have been observed, as in a confirmed case of a bitten on the . These effects, while resembling black widow envenomation, are less severe and infrequent. Standard treatment includes thorough cleaning of the wound with soap and water, application of to reduce swelling, and oral analgesics like ibuprofen for ; antihistamines may alleviate itching if present. Medical evaluation is recommended if systemic symptoms emerge, signs of allergic reaction appear, or infection develops, potentially warranting in severe cases as demonstrated by effective use of red-back spider antivenom. Medically, S. grossa poses low risk to humans due to its mild potency, though its prevalence in synanthropic habitats may increase incidental bites in populated areas.

Cultural significance

Misidentification and public perception

Steatoda grossa is frequently misidentified as the black widow spider () owing to its similar rounded and overall dark, glossy brown coloration. However, distinct differences aid in accurate identification: S. grossa lacks the iconic red hourglass marking on the underside of the that characterizes black widows, and its is more oval and elongated with slender legs, contrasting the black widow's teardrop-shaped, globular and thicker legs. Habitat preferences further distinguish them, as S. grossa thrives in synanthropic environments indoors, such as garages and sheds, while black widows favor outdoor, sheltered spots like woodpiles and debris. Public perception of S. grossa is heavily influenced by its nickname, the "false black widow," which evokes undue alarm and prompts unnecessary measures despite its minimal risk to humans. This fear often stems from superficial resemblances to more venomous species, leading to widespread and reports of panic in homes where the spider is spotted. Conversely, S. grossa serves a valuable ecological role by preying on common household pests including flies, mosquitoes, and , thereby acting as a natural biocontrol agent. During the 2010s, heightened media coverage in the United Kingdom regarding invasions by related Steatoda species, particularly S. nobilis, amplified public anxiety over false widows like S. grossa, portraying them as emerging threats and fueling sensationalized reports of bites and infestations. This period of attention exacerbated misconceptions, despite expert assurances that such spiders pose little danger and contribute positively to urban ecosystems.

Appearances in media

Steatoda grossa has appeared in popular media primarily as a for more dangerous spiders due to its similar appearance to the black widow. In the 2002 film directed by , a real S. grossa specimen was used for the scene where the genetically altered spider bites Peter Parker, granting him his powers; the spider was painted red and blue to resemble a black widow and trained by entomologist Steven Kutcher for the role. The species features in educational documentaries highlighting . A segment in the 2014 BBC Four program How do spiders mate? observes a male S. grossa approaching a during , illustrating the risks of spider rituals. Similarly, the Natural History Museum has produced videos on false widow spiders, emphasizing their non-aggressive nature. In news media, S. grossa often appears in UK articles discussing false widows amid public concerns over invasive species like Steatoda nobilis. For instance, a 2013 Guardian piece contrasts S. grossa's benign profile with more sensationalized reports on related spiders, portraying it as a longstanding, unthreatening resident. Coverage in outlets like references S. grossa in educational contexts to alleviate fears, such as in pieces on identifying household arachnids. Symbolically, S. grossa represents urban adaptation and minor household nuisances in media portrayals of synanthropic , often depicted in pest control guides and nature shows as a beneficial predator of despite occasional misidentifications.

References

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