Common Name: Brown Recluse Spider
Scientific Name: Loxoscetes spp.
Class/Order/Family: Loxoscelidae
Metamorphosis: Simple
Introduction: The brown recluse or fiddleback/violin spider
gets its common names from its coloration and reclusive
habits, or the dark violin/fiddle-shaped marking on the
top of the cephalothorax. Members of the genus Loxosceles
occur in southern Europe, temperate Africa, and in North,
Central, and South America. Brown recluse spiders occur
pretty much throughout the United States and of 11 species
recognized, 7 are of public health importance. Recognition
of the brown recluse species is sufficient for PCO purposes. 
Recognition: Adults usually about 1/4-1/2" (6-12 mm)
in body length (L. laeta about 1"/25 mm). Color tan
to dark brown with a darker fiddle-shaped marking on dorsum
or top of cephalothorax whose neck points towards abdomen.
Uniquely, with 6 eyes arranged in 3 groups of 2 (diads)
in a semicircle. Immatures very similar to adults except
for being smaller and slightly paler.
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