This is the Black Widow spider. It belongs to the phylum arthropoda. These spiders are usually identified by the red, hourglass-shaped mark on their abdomens. One weird thing about this species, is that sometimes, after mating with its male counterpart, the female Black Widow spider kills and eats the male. Hence the name. Some of the many bugs that Black Widows prey on are grasshoppers, flies, beetles, and caterpillars. This spider is actually quite dangerous. Its bite is found to be venomous. Infact, its venom is reported to be 15 times stronger than that of a rattlesnake! Although fatalities from this bite are rare in humans, there are symptoms such as nausea, muscles aches, and a paralysis of the diaphram which can make breathing difficult. These bites are mostly fatal for small children, and elders. Fortunately, Black Widows are non-aggressive, and mostly bite in self-defense. Insects have a higher risk of being killed by Black Widows.
The fact that Black Widows are so dangerous, because of their venomous bites, is the reason why these spiders are so successful. Not many animals try to challenge this species. It does not have many predators. It is quite feared. The Black Widow spider is considered to be the most venomous spider in North America.
Black Widows are not really helpful, but they are not exactly harmful either. They don't tend to get in the way too much. They only attack humans when they feel threatened. Although, sometimes this species aids in getting rid of pests that harm crops.
More Information:
Video showing a female mating with a male, and then eating it:
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