The Spartaeinae jumping spiders are an intelligent species of spiders who belong to the subfamily of the spider family Salticidae (jumping spiders). In 1984, Fred R. Wanless established this subfamily of jumping spiders to include the groups, Cocaleae, Boetheae, Cyrbeae, and Codeteae. This subfamily was further defined by Eugene Simon.
One unique thing about this jumping spider species is that they are Paleaotropical and boast of exceptional diversity in the Indonesian archipelagos and Malaysia. And because our spider friends are unusual salticids, they are mostly considered basal to the jumping spider clan’s phylogenetic tree. And just like the Lyssomaninae, with whom they share a lot of similarities, the Spartaeinae jumping spider lacks many derived features that most Salticinae possess.
While our furry friends are described to have large posterior median eyes, these were drastically reduced in the genera Gelotia, Wanlessia, and Syria.
What is their scientific name?
Unlike other jumping spiders we have come across who have a common name they are called, this particular jumping spider subfamily doesn’t have a common name which it goes by; instead, its scientific name, Spartaeinae has taken much precedence.
And because our spider friends share a lot of characteristics with jumping spider species such as the Lyssomaninae, it can be tricky to correctly describe what they look like. Not to worry, we will run you through some detailed descriptions of the Spartaeinae jumping spider, so you know what they look like when you come across any member from this subfamily.
Physical description and size
Because they have a similar physical description with other spiders, many people sometimes mistake the Spartaeinae for other jumping spiders. But not to worry, we are here to set the record straight, so you know what our furry friends look like- who knows, you may just come across them one of these days.
To start with, the Spartaeinae jumping spider features a large, flattish bulbus, which is somewhat oval. Plus, our fuzzy friend is covered entirely by tegulum, as well as a translucent spermophor that sits on its contour.
And before we get ahead of ourselves, let’s also add that their embolus is prominent and arises from the anterior side of the bulbus, which encircles its anterior part. The females of this species have a spermatheca that forms a large chamber of copulatory ducts that are relatively simple.
The Spartaeinae jumping spider is unique among spiders because of its advanced eyesight and high visual acuity. Thanks to their well-developed vision, our leaper friends can detect prey, which they capture by what experts refer to as, cursorial pursuit and final pounce.
When it comes to size, most jumping spiders that make up the Spartaeinae subfamily are medium-sized, and that’s because males measure between 7.5 and 11.5 mm. On the other hand, females are slightly bigger than their male counterparts and measure between 4 and 5 mm.
Where are they from?
The Spartaeinae subfamily of jumping spiders has a widespread distribution that cuts through many continents and habitats. While some species of this jumping spider subfamily are commonly sighted in Asia, especially in countries like Indonesia and Malaysia, other species have been sighted in Europe and even Africa.
While they naturally prefer tropical regions, our leaper friends also thrive very well in temperate areas. Thanks to their ability to thrive very well in most environments, our jumper friends have a wide distribution, which kind of explains why they have been sighted in almost all countries around the world.
Diet/feeding
Like other jumping spiders, the Spartaeinae is an incredible hunter that can fend for itself in the wild. Thanks to their extraordinary vision and sharp jumping skills, these species of jumping spiders can stalk their prey, lure them closer and pounce on them with utmost precision.
Though they are medium-sized spiders, the Spartaeinae jumping spider is daring and can take on small and large insects. While they usually feast on flies, butterflies, cricket, larvas, and spider eggs, they also take on web-building spiders.
In some instances, they also steal prey entangled in webs.
When bred in captivity, our leaper friends are no longer able to hunt and fend for themselves. To this end, you have to ensure they feed properly by providing feeder insects you can either buy from pet stores close to you or catch around your home.
What is their temperament?
It’s no secret that jumping spiders are friendly creatures. And even though they are vicious towards prey, they are mostly friendly and harmless around humans. As a matter of fact, jumping spider species like the Spartaeinae will likely run away when they come across humans.
And because they are mostly friendly, colorful, and display unique antics, you’ll not see with many spiders, many exotic pet lovers enjoying raising our leaper friends as pets.
Is it dangerous or venomous to humans?
Although many people have phobias for spiders, we are happy to let you know that jumping spiders are changing the negative perceptions about spiders, and that’s all thanks to their friendly nature. And even though our leaper friends are venomous, their venom is only potent against prey. What this means is that their venom isn’t harmful to humans.
Should you end up with a bite from your spider friends, you’ll only notice slight irritations and redness that disappears after a couple of days.
Frequently asked questions
Do they make great pets?
Are you looking for an exotic pet to raise in captivity? Then you’ll not be disappointed to give our leaper friends a try. Because of their exciting spider antics and friendly nature, the Spartaeinae will make a decent pet.
What do they eat?
Generally, jumping spiders will feed on small insects, even though they won’t shy away from large insects that are twice their size. They will feed on insects like flies, mosquitoes, butterflies, web-building spiders, and their eggs in the wild.
What is their lifespan?
Jumping spiders have a really short lifespan. From juveniles to adulthood, our leaper friends will likely live for 6 to 1 year. If raised in captivity, they tend to live longer and can survive for nearly two years.
