Jumping spiders, known for their distinctive large eyes and agile movements, are captivating arachnids found across various environments globally. Their widespread presence often sparks curiosity about many aspects of their lives, particularly how long these small creatures typically survive. Understanding their longevity reveals insights into their natural behaviors and needs.
Understanding Jumping Spider Lifespan
A jumping spider’s lifespan typically ranges from six months to two years in natural habitats. In captivity, some individuals may live longer, potentially reaching up to three years. For example, a female bold jumping spider (Phidippus audax) has been documented living for three years.
A jumping spider’s life progresses through several stages: egg, spiderling, and adult. Eggs hatch into spiderlings, which undergo multiple molts, shedding their exoskeletons to grow. Molting is necessary for development. After several molts, they reach adulthood, becoming sexually mature and ready to reproduce.
Factors Influencing Their Longevity
Several elements contribute to the variability observed in a jumping spider’s lifespan. Species differences play a role, with larger species like the Bold Jumping Spider and Regal Jumping Spider often living longer than smaller ones. Environmental conditions, including temperature and humidity, significantly impact their survival. Spiders in colder climates that enter periods of dormancy may experience extended lifespans.
The availability and quality of their diet also influence longevity. A consistent supply of nutritious food promotes better health and can contribute to a longer life, while poor nutrition or overfeeding can shorten it. Predation risks from animals such as wasps, flies, and lizards in their natural environment can abruptly end a spider’s life. Molting difficulties, where a spider struggles to shed its old exoskeleton, can also prove fatal.
Longevity also differs between sexes. Female jumping spiders generally live longer than males. Males often have shorter lifespans, sometimes dying shortly after mating due to the energy expended during courtship and reproduction.
Caring for Jumping Spiders in Captivity
Appropriate captive care can extend a jumping spider’s lifespan beyond what is typical in the wild. Enclosures should prioritize vertical space, as these spiders are arboreal climbers. For adults, a size of around 6x6x9 inches (10x10x15 cm) is suitable, with front-opening designs beneficial to avoid disturbing webs.
Maintaining proper temperature and humidity is important for their well-being. Most jumping spiders thrive at room temperatures between 68-83°F (20-28°C). Humidity typically ranges from 50-60%, though some tropical species or molting spiders may benefit from higher humidity, up to 75-80%.
A consistent, appropriate diet is important for captive jumping spiders. They are carnivores, feeding on small insects like fruit flies, crickets, or small moths. Juveniles may require daily feeding, while adults generally need food every two to five days. Hydration is primarily provided by misting enclosure sides, allowing the spider to drink water droplets, rather than using a water dish where they could drown.