What is the chemical name of Black Widow venom?

Venoms are mixtures so there would not be a chemical name for the mixture. But the main toxic substance in Black Widow venom is alpha-Latrotoxin, which somehow causes neurons to release neurotransmitters (like acetylcholine) from the presynaptic end of the neuron, and also causes endocrine cells to release whatever they would normally release only under special circumstances (like insulin). read more

There are 31 species of Latrodectus in the world, spread across every continent except Antarctica. 4 of those 31 are native to North America, and 3 of those are “Black Widows”. The Western Black Widow, most common in Utah, is Latrodectus Hesperus. Everybody knows that Black Widow venom is dangerous. read more

Female black widows, on the other hand, have quickly evolved super concentrated venom that can kill a person. Each year, about 2,200 people report being bitten by a black widow, but most recover within 24 hours with medical treatment. read more