Recluse, violin, and fiddleback spiders belong to the Loxoscelidae family. They hide during the day in secluded places, such as the folds of clothing and linens, and are likely to bite when disturbed. The flesh-killing effects of a recluse spider bite can continue for up to four months and treatment often requires skin grafts and plastic surgery.
Venom and Antivenom
According to Richard S. Vetter, Staff Research Associate with the University of California at Riverside's Department of Entomology, enzymes in recluse venom cause tissue necrosis and sometimes death in humans. Researchers are working to find a consistently effective antivenom to reduce disfigurement and fatalities.
Geographic Distribution
The small family of Loxoscelidae spiders consists of about 100 species found throughout the world. In the United States alone, eleven native species exist.
Recluse Misidentification
Recluse spiders can often, but not always, be identified by a violin-shaped marking. Not every spider with such markings is necessarily a recluse spider, so the best treatment for any spider bite is to get medical attention as soon as possible. Take the spider to be identified because misidentifications of recluse spiders are common.
Most Common
The most common Loxoscelidae species in the United States is L. reclusa (brown recluse), followed by L. deserta (desert recluse) and L. arizonica (Arizona recluse). South America's most common brown spiders are L. laeta, L. intermedia, and L. gaucho.
Exotic Species
L. laeta (Chilean recluse) and L. rufescens (Mediterranean recluse), are sometimes found in the , transported through imported goods.(See References 3)
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