Jumping Spider Care

Jumping spiders, including the Phidippus regius, undergo a process known as molting, or ecdysis, to grow and develop. Since spiders have a hard exoskeleton that cannot expand, they must periodically shed this outer layer to allow for growth. Molting is a complex and vulnerable process for jumping spiders, involving several stages.

1. Preparation for Molting:

Behavioral Changes: Before molting, jumping spiders usually exhibit changes in behavior. They may become less active and stop eating for several days. The spider will seek out a safe, secluded location to undergo the molt, often spinning a small silk retreat or hammock to protect itself during the process.

Physical Signs: The spider’s exoskeleton becomes duller, and the abdomen may appear swollen as it produces a new, softer exoskeleton underneath the old one. The spider may also appear more lethargic.

Molting Process in Phidippus regius

• Early Instars: The spiderlings emerge from the egg sac in their first instar. In these early stages, the spiderlings are very small and vulnerable. They undergo several molts to grow larger and develop more defined features.

• Middle Instars: As they continue to molt, the spiderlings gradually develop the characteristic colors and patterns of Phidippus regius, including the distinctive iridescent chelicerae (mouthparts) and the vibrant body markings. During these instars, they become more independent and start hunting for small prey.

• Final Instar: The final molt, usually the sixth to eighth, is when the spider reaches adulthood. At this stage, the spider's sexual characteristics become fully developed, and the spider is capable of reproduction.

Jenna - MH