Ctenus captiosus

Distinguished from other wandering spiders in Florida by the combination of: (1) presence in the Ctenidae family (only two Florida species), (2) yellow-gray abdomen with distinctive pale median band of connected triangles edged in brown, and (3) pale yellowish sternum and leg undersides contrasting with dark dorsal surfaces. The leg span of up to 75 mm and preference for mesic habitats further aid identification.

Medium-sized wandering spider with body length 10–14 mm in males and 10–15 mm in females. Leg span may reach 75 mm. Carapace and dorsal leg surfaces dark in color. Abdomen yellow-gray with a pale median band composed of connected triangles edged in brown. Underside of legs and sternum much paler, almost yellow.

Mesic habitats including oak and pine forests, leaf litter, and caves. Documented in pond pine and sand pine scrub, and flatwoods. Occupies both arboreal (tree-dwelling) and ground-level microhabitats.

United States, specifically Florida. One of only two Ctenidae species known from the state.

Most commonly observed in spring, presumed to be associated with mate-searching behavior as temperatures warm. Large numbers reported in summer in pond pine and sand pine scrub, and in fall in flatwoods.

Wandering spider that does not build webs for prey capture. Seasonal activity suggests temperature-dependent movement patterns, with increased surface activity in spring potentially related to reproduction.

Presumed generalist predator in forest and scrub ecosystems; specific ecological impacts undocumented.

Bites have been reported to cause needle-like puncture, local swelling, nausea, dizziness, and flu-like symptoms persisting several days. One necrotic bite case was reported but evidence was circumstantial and venom assay did not detect Sphingomyelin phosphodiesterase D. No substantial research supports consistent medical significance. Total venom protein content measured at 604.25 in one study.

• Other Ctenidae speciesOnly one other Ctenidae species occurs in Florida, making family-level identification distinctive for the region; C. captiosus differs in its specific abdominal patterning and habitat preferences
• Lycosidae (true wolf spiders)Common name 'false wolf spider' reflects resemblance; distinguished by family-level characters including eye arrangement and abdominal patterning

• BugGuide
• Wikipedia
• GBIF taxonomy match
• NCBI Taxonomy
• Catalogue of Life