Which of the following statements is correct about the black widow spider?

Study for the General Pest and Rodent Control Test. Explore detailed flashcards and multiple choice questions with hints and answers. Get prepared for your exam!

The correct statement about the black widow spider is that its venom is a hemotoxin. Hemotoxins are a type of venom that primarily affects the blood and vascular system, potentially causing damage to tissues and leading to a variety of symptoms. In the case of black widow spider bites, their venom contains a neurotoxin that can result in severe muscular pain, cramping, and systemic effects; while it is important to note that hemotoxins can affect blood flow and tissue, the neurotoxic aspect is particularly significant in the black widow's venom.

The other statements do not accurately describe the black widow spider: it indeed has venom that can cause harm, which makes the assertion it has "no venom" incorrect. The statement regarding the venom being specifically for paralysis misrepresents the nature of the bite, as it leads to various neurological symptoms rather than solely paralysis. Regarding diet, black widow spiders generally feed on insects and other small invertebrates, but they do not primarily target large insects; they are more likely to capture smaller, less dangerous prey. Therefore, the focus on the venom's characteristics is critical in understanding the biological and medical relevance of the black widow spider.

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