Has anyone tried cross breeding L. geo x L. hesperus?

[Tarantula155]

I've read a few possible mating outcomes between certain Latrodectus species, but has anyone tried crossing Latrodectus geometricus (aka Brown Widow) with L. mactans, L. hesperus, or L. bishopi?

 

[Greasylake]

I found a cladogram of the Latrodectus genus, and L. geometricus seems pretty far removed from every other species. I don't really think it would work to be honest.

 

[Dennis Nedry]

Chances are the male is getting eaten if they meet

 

[Joogvanhedel]

Tried hassalti male didnt even look at the geo female...

 

[NYAN]

Geometricus is an invasive species with little relation to American widows. Their reproductive structures are probably not compatible outside of their species.

 

[Tarantula155]

Geometricus is an invasive species with little relation to American widows. Their reproductive structures are probably not compatible outside of their species.

Figured.

 

[Tarantula155]

Does anyone know how much tolerance to the cold Brown Widows are? Are they capable of surviving low 20F ?

 

[pannaking22]

Even if they successfully mate, odds are pretty good that the sac would be a dud or the resulting offspring would be sterile.

They're a hardy species, so I wouldn't be terribly surprised if some survived in a sheltered area. If it got really cold though that'd likely be the end of them.