Even though we have come across different jumping spider species, the Emerald jumping spider wows us every time with its impressive looks and brilliant spider antics. While this spider belongs to the genus Paraphidippus, it is an integral member of the family Saltcidae.
Besides all of its intimidating physical attributes, the Emerald jumping spider is a solitary hunter and debuts a relatively large size that isn’t very common among jumping spiders. Thanks to its widespread distribution, our leaper friend has been spotted in several countries. That said, the Emerald is most commonly sighted in the United States. Are you interested in learning more about the Emerald jumpings spider?
Then read on to find other exciting details about our leaper friend.
What is their scientific name?
Like all members of the Salticidae, our spider friend is commonly called the Emerald jumping spider. While this name has trailed this species of jumping spider everywhere it goes, it has a scientific name that many experts like to call it. As per the scientific name, the Emerald jumping spider is called Paraphidus aurantius.
Now that you know both the common and scientific name of the Emerald jumping spider, it’s time to take you through the nitty-gritty of their physical attributes and size. This is pretty important if you’re looking to identify the Emerald jumping spider without a fuss.
Physical description and size
Without mincing words, the Emerald jumping spider is among the most intimidating jumping spiders we have encountered, and that’s all because of its massive size. While other jumping spiders have an average size ranging between 5 to 8 mm, the Emerald jumping spider can reach up to 10 to 12 mm in length.
Although adult females of this jumping spider are slightly bigger than their male counterparts because they measure between 8 to 12 mm, males aren’t too small and range between 7 to 10 mm in length.
Besides their intimidating size, the Emerald jumping spider has so much going on in terms of physical attributes. To start with, adult males of this jumping spider appear predominantly black with a white stripe that is conspicuous on either side of their head. Similarly, the top of their abdomen spots very visible border rounds.
On the flip side, adult females of this jumping spider species have a predominantly brown body, with some orange details. Both sexes exhibit similar behavior and show vivid and metallic green coloring on both their cephalothorax and abdomen. These become even more visible when light reflects on them.
Though they may not be as hairy as other jumping spider species; still, they feature a line of soft hair that runs down the center of their abdomen. Not just that, this is also followed by white dots and faint lines on either side of their abdomen.
Similarly, they also debut eight sets of big round eyes that sit just on the front of their face. And if you’re lucky enough to get close to them, before they leap away, you’ll spot a smaller pair of eyes just on the top of their carapace.
Like other brilliant jumping spider species we have been fortunate to come across, the Emerald jumping spider can leap relatively long distances, which is a hallmark of most jumping spiders of this size. While their eyesight may not be as advanced as humans, experts believe that our leaper friends boast of excellent vision that can be just as curious as those of humans. Together with their excellent vision and springy legs, our spider friends can pounce on unsuspecting prey.
Where are they from?
The Emerald jumping spider has a widespread distribution, little wonder why they have been spotted across several countries. Although the Paraphidippus aurantius is believed to occur in the United States, Panama, and the Greater Antilles, this jumping spider has been spotted in Europe, Asia, and Africa, where experts believe they were introduced.
And because they can thrive very well in every environment they find themselves in, it isn’t uncommon to find our leaper friends across temperate and tropical rainforests. While you’ll commonly sight them on shrubs and leaves, you may sometimes spot them across human settlements.
Diet/food
Because they are solitary hunters, Emerald jumping spiders can effectively fend for themselves in the wild. This jumping spider species will patiently observe, stalk their prey and pounce on them using their devastating jumping skills.
While they mainly prefer small insects, their intimidating size means our spider friends can take on prey twice their size. And as far as their feeding is concerned, Emerald jumping spiders will feast on flies, crickets, aphids, ants, butterflies, and a host of other insects in the wild.
What is their temperament?
Given their intimidating and fierce looks, the Emerald jumper may come off as an aggressive jumping spider. But guess what? Our leaper friends are calm, collected, and friendly. While they will viciously attack their prey, they will most likely shy away when they encounter humans. Because of how friendly they are and coupled with their intriguing spider display, many exotic pet enthusiasts will enjoy raising them as pets.
Is it dangerous or venomous to humans?
To be upfront with you, the Emerald jumping spider has a potent venom that can incapacitate its prey. But you know what, its venom doesn’t cause any harm to humans. And although a bite from this spider will leave some slight irritations and redness, this usually subsides after some days.
Frequently asked questions
Where does the Emerald jumping spider live?
Emerald jumping spiders like to stay in areas with abundant grasslands and leaves. Outside of their natural habitat, you may also spot them across human settlements.
Are they aggressive?
Emerald jumping spiders display aggressive tendencies, especially when they go after their prey or feel threatened. But unless they spot danger, they are mostly calm and collected.
Can you keep Emerald jumping spiders as pets?
Because of their overwhelming physical attributes, exciting spider display, and overall friendly nature, the Emerald jumping spider will make a brilliant pet.
