Which spider species bite produces a neurotoxin that can be deadly?

• A. Brown recluse
• B. Black widow
• C. Wolf spider
• D. Daddy longlegs

Answer: (B)

Spiders vary in the type of venom they carry, and some venom targets the nervous system. The one whose bite is known for delivering a neurotoxin that can be deadly is the black widow. Its venom contains a potent neurotoxin that disrupts nerve signaling, leading to severe symptoms like intense muscle cramps, abdominal pain, tremors, sweating, and changes in blood pressure or breathing. Death is rare with treatment, but this venom poses the greatest risk among common spiders.

Brown recluse bites are primarily cytotoxic, causing tissue damage at the bite site rather than widespread nervous system effects. Wolf spider bites are usually mild, producing only local pain and swelling. Bites from daddy longlegs are not dangerous to humans and are not known for producing harmful neurotoxins.