The Phidippus regius, commonly known as the Regal Jumping Spider, is a charismatic arachnid that has become increasingly popular in the pet trade due to its striking coloration and inquisitive nature. This species is one of the largest jumping spiders. Because of their relatively short life cycle, the longevity of a Regal Jumping Spider is highly dependent on its environment and the quality of care it receives.
Lifespan Expectations: Captivity vs. Wild
The total lifespan of a Phidippus regius varies considerably between natural and controlled environments. In the wild, where they face constant threats from predators, inconsistent food supply, and harsh weather fluctuations, the life expectancy is significantly shorter, typically lasting about one year.
In contrast, a controlled captive environment generally extends the lifespan to between one and a half and two and a half years. Longevity is extended because the spider is protected from predation and provided with a consistent food source. Stable temperature and humidity within an enclosure eliminate the stress of environmental extremes, allowing the spider to focus energy on growth and maintenance.
The Role of Sex and Genetics in Longevity
Sex is a major determinant of how long an individual spider will live. Female Regal Jumping Spiders consistently outlive their male counterparts, often by several months. Females can live for up to two and a half years, with some rare individuals reaching three years under ideal conditions.
Male P. regius usually have a shorter adult life, often surviving for only six to twelve months after reaching maturity. This difference is partially attributed to the male’s primary role being focused on reproduction, which is often a brief phase following their final molt. Another factor influencing lifespan is the spider’s origin; wild-caught individuals can be of unknown age, making their remaining time unpredictable compared to captive-bred spiders whose developmental timeline is known.
Developmental Timeline: From Instar to Maturity
A significant portion of the Phidippus regius lifespan is spent in the juvenile stage. They must shed their exoskeleton through molting, with each stage between molts known as an instar. Regal Jumping Spiders typically pass through five to nine instars before reaching maturity.
The time it takes to reach maturity can range from six to twelve months, depending on the spider’s sex and how consistently it is fed and kept warm. Males generally mature more quickly, which aligns with their shorter overall lifespan. Once the final molt is complete, the spider is considered a sexually mature adult, and the remaining portion of its life is often less than a year.
Optimizing Habitat for Maximum Longevity
Temperature and Humidity
Careful attention must be paid to the enclosure’s environmental parameters. The ideal temperature range should be maintained between 75°F and 85°F to ensure proper metabolism and hunting activity. Cold stress can significantly shorten their life.
Humidity levels should be maintained between 60% and 80%, with proper ventilation necessary to prevent the growth of mold or bacteria. Hydration is provided by lightly misting the sides of the enclosure a few times per week, which allows the spider to drink the water droplets. The enclosure should dry out slightly between mistings to avoid stagnant air.
Diet and Feeding
A consistent and varied diet promotes health and longevity. Spiders should be fed live prey, such as flightless fruit flies for spiderlings, and crickets, house flies, or small roaches for adults, approximately two to three times per week. Overfeeding must be avoided as this can lead to obesity and complications during molting. Prey offered should be no larger than the spider’s abdomen to prevent injury and stress during a hunt.