The tragic end of the 48-year-old man in Tower of Ilia, who allegedly died from her sting spider brown, has reasonably caused interest around what it is and above all how dangerous this particular arthropod species can be for humans.

What do we know about the brown recluse spider?

The recluse spider is the most popular of the brown spider family. It is a small species, with a violin-shaped body that can reach up to 1.2 cm in length.

Its bite, however, can pack a powerful, poisonous punch. It usually leads to skin cell necrosis, which in turn can lead to severe reactions or even death in some people.

But for the most part, about 90 percent of cases heal without medical intervention and treatment, according to Rick Vetter, a former entomology researcher at the University of California.

After seeking immediate help for the sting, people will usually see their wounds close after cleaning them and applying the RICE method—rest, ice, compression, and elevation—to the affected area, notes Vetter.

Where does the “hermit” live and how will you recognize him?

Again according to Vetter, the recluse spider is found mainly in Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, Louisiana, Arkansas, Missouri, Mississippi, Alabama and parts of Georgia, Tennessee, Kentucky, Ohio, of Indiana, Illinois, Iowa and Nebraska. If you don’t live in these areas, “it’s very unlikely you’ll encounter a recluse spider. It’s possible but incredibly rare,” Vetter emphasizes.

The brown recluse spider belongs to the genus Loxosceles. Those that belong to it usually have a violin-shaped body, which is why they are often referred to as violin spiders, according to Oklahoma State University.

Regarding its color, if it is old then it is dark brown. But since the violin shape can easily be deceiving, it’s best—if and as long as you have the courage—to look them in the eye. “They have six eyes, instead of eight like most spiders,” entomologist Christy Bills told Live Science.

Other species of spiders have eight eyes arranged in rows of four. The recluse spider, however, has six eyes of equal size arranged in three pairs.

Another distinguishing feature is its uniformly colored belly which is covered with fine hairs, which give it a plush appearance. Their long, thin legs are also covered in fine hairs rather than spines like other spiders.

These spiders are not particularly aggressive and will not bite someone unless they are trapped in their skin – e.g. on a worn garment or inside shoes.