LATRODECTUS MACTAN Meaning and
Definition
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Latrodectus mactan, also known as the Mactan widow spider, is a species of venomous spider belonging to the genus Latrodectus, which is part of the family Theridiidae. This species is named after its native habitat, Mactan Island in the Philippines. The Mactan widow spider is characterized by its small to medium-sized body, with adult females usually measuring around 10 to 15 millimeters in length, while males are generally smaller.
Typically, the Mactan widow spider displays a shiny black color, with females having a distinctive red-to-orange hourglass-shaped mark on their ventral abdomen, while males possess a more intricate pattern of red and white markings. This species constructs irregular, tangled webs made of strong silk that are usually found in dark and concealed locations, such as between rocks, logs, or in leaf litter.
Like other widow spiders, Latrodectus mactan is known for its venomous bite, which is potentially dangerous to humans. Its neurotoxic venom contains various compounds that can affect the nervous system, resulting in symptoms such as intense pain, muscle cramps, sweating, and even systemic effects in severe cases.
While the Mactan widow spider has limited geographic distribution and is primarily found in Mactan Island, it is important to exercise caution and avoid unnecessary contact with these spiders if one happens to reside in or visit areas where they are indigenous.
Common Misspellings for LATRODECTUS MACTAN
- katrodectus mactan
- patrodectus mactan
- oatrodectus mactan
- lztrodectus mactan
- lstrodectus mactan
- lwtrodectus mactan
- lqtrodectus mactan
- larrodectus mactan
- lafrodectus mactan
- lagrodectus mactan
- layrodectus mactan
- la6rodectus mactan
- la5rodectus mactan
- lateodectus mactan
- latdodectus mactan
- latfodectus mactan
- lattodectus mactan
- lat5odectus mactan
- lat4odectus mactan
- latridectus mactan
Etymology of LATRODECTUS MACTAN
The word "Latrodectus mactan" is a scientific binomial name for a species of spider commonly known as the "mactan widow spider" or "Philippine black widow spider".
The etymology of this name can be understood by dissecting it into its components:
1. Latrodectus: This term originates from the Ancient Greek words "latro" meaning "robber" or "bandit" and "dēktes" meaning "biter" or "one that bites". The genus name "Latrodectus" refers to the group of venomous spiders commonly known as widow spiders.
2. Mactan: This term refers to the island of Mactan, which is located in the Philippines. The species name "mactan" is given to this particular spider species to indicate its geographic origin or association with Mactan Island.
