Phidippus

Phidippus is a genus of jumping spiders in the family Salticidae, native to the Americas. The genus contains about 80 described species and is among the better known groups of jumping spiders due to their size and striking coloration. They range from southern Canada through the United States, into Central America and parts of northern South America and the Caribbean.

Phidippus spiders are typically medium to large for jumping spiders, with body lengths from about 5 to 25 millimeters. Many species feature bold markings on the abdomen and iridescent or metallic chelicerae that can be green, orange, or red. They are diurnal hunters that rely on keen vision to stalk and pounce on a variety of prey, from insects to other spiders. Although they rely on silk for retreat and egg sacs, they do not use sticky webs to catch prey; silk is also used for safety lines when jumping.

All Phidippus possess four pairs of eyes, with the large anterior median eyes providing acute central vision and depth perception, crucial for tracking prey and navigating their environment.

Reproduction involves elaborate courtship by males, including leg taps, rhythmic movements, and body postures. Females lay eggs in silken sacs and guard them until hatchlings emerge. Lifespans vary by species and sex; females typically live longer than males, with several months to a couple of years in captivity or the wild.

Notable species include Phidippus audax (bold jumper), recognizable for three white spots on the abdomen; Phidippus regius (regal jumper), common in the southeastern United States with bright metallic chelicerae; and Phidippus apacheanus. Phidippus species are appreciated by hobbyists and can be kept in captivity with appropriate care. They are beneficial predators in gardens and can occasionally deliver a painful but generally non-dangerous bite to humans.