JUMPING SPIDER CARE GUIDE - P. regius
What does the abbreviation 'i' signify?
Jumping spiders undergo multiple molts (INSTARS). Upon hatching, young jumping spiders exclusively consume a yolk sac on their abdomen. The first molt (i1) marks their transition from egg to eggs-with-legs. With each subsequent molt, the number following the abbreviation 'i' increases by one.
Temperature & Humidity
Phidippus regius originates from warm regions. To ensure the proper care of jumping spiders, it's essential to maintain a terrarium temperature between 23-26°C. If the temperature drops too low, these spiders may become sluggish and may even stop eating. Humidity should be kept around 50-70%. You can achieve this by using moisture retaining substrate such as Coco coir, as well as misting down the enclosure every One to Two days.
Enclosure
Terrariums with greater height than width & length are ideal. Adequate air circulation, and ventilation is necessary.
Jumping spiders typically prefer inhabiting the upper regions of the enclosure where they construct their webs. Consequently, while the substrate of the enclosure holds secondary importance, spagnam moss, white rotten wood, and leaves serve as ideal choices, especially if you intend to incorporate plants or ground cover. Ample climbing opportunities should be provided in various directions within the terrarium to offer the spiders sufficient enrichment, mobility, and hiding spots. Moreover, live plants not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of the terrarium but also offer additional hiding places for the spiders.
Food and water
To hydrate them, using a spray bottle to moisten one side of the enclosure is the preferred method, ensuring there are enough droplets on the side walls to last a few hours, allowing ample time for the spider to drink.
Similarly, jumping spiders should be fed two to three times weekly. Generally, Phidippus regius can consume prey up to 1.5 times their size. Jumpers are not pickey with what they consume.
Jumper slings at i2 - i3 - Drosophila melanogaster fruit flies.
Jumpers slings at i4 - i5 - Drosophila hydei fruit flies, & tiny pinhead crickets.
Jumpers at i6 - Mature - Crickets, mealworms, Roaches etc.
Sling feeding technique:
Is it possible to house multiple jumping spiders together in a single terrarium?
When considering the care of jumping spiders, it's crucial to recognize that most species are not social creatures. They don't seek out companionship and may perceive other spiders as potential prey. Therefore, it's recommended to keep them individually in their own terrariums. If you wish to house several jumping spiders, each one should have its own separate enclosure.
Health and Maintenance
Maintain a clean environment by removing uneaten prey, molts, and any debris from the enclosure. Regularly check for signs of illness, such as lethargy, or unusual behaviour.
Stages of Life
Egg Sac
Second Instar
Third Instar
Fourth Instar
Fifth Instar
Sub-Adult / Penultimate
Mature Female / Gravid Female
Mature Male
