Phidippus

Classification

Phylum: Arthropoda
Subphylum: Chelicerata
Class: Arachnida
Order: Araneae
Infraorder: Araneomorphae
Family: Salticidae
Genus: Phidippus

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Phidippus: //fɪˈdɪpəs//

These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.

Images

Phidippus mystaceus 9952 by platycryptus. Used under a CC BY 2.0 license.

Phidippus mystaceus 0595 by platycryptus. Used under a CC BY 2.0 license.

Phidippus asotus 91820582 by jcowles. Used under a CC BY 4.0 license.

Phidippus asotus 91820542 by jcowles. Used under a CC BY 4.0 license.

Phidippus mystaceus 1641 by David Hill. Used under a CC BY 2.0 license.

Phidippus arizonensis 0109 by David Hill. Used under a CC BY 2.0 license.

Summary

Phidippus is a genus of jumping spiders noteworthy for their size and coloration. They are predominantly distributed across North America, with hunting and feeding behaviors that adapt to their environments.

Physical Characteristics

Many species within the genus Phidippus are characterized by brilliant, iridescent green chelicerae. They are some of the largest jumping spiders.

Identification Tips

Look for distinctive jumping behavior and large, prominent eyes, which are characteristic of jumping spiders. The iridescent chelicerae can also help in identification.

Habitat

Phidippus species are typically found in a variety of terrestrial habitats, including forests, grasslands, and urban areas, mostly throughout North America.

Distribution

Primarily found in North America, extending from Alaska to Costa Rica, including the Bahamas, Bermuda, Easter Island, Hawaii, and the Greater Antilles.

Diet

Phidippus spiders primarily feed on insects and other small invertebrates. Some have been documented preying on small vertebrates, such as tree frogs.

Life Cycle

Specific life cycle stages are not provided, but spiders generally go through egg, juvenile, and adult stages, with a likely focus on hunting behaviors in adults.

Reproduction

Details on reproduction are not specified, but like many arachnids, Phidippus species likely exhibit typical spider courtship and mating behaviors.

Predators

Predators include birds, larger insects, and other spider species, though specific predator information for Phidippus is lacking.

Ecosystem Role

As predators, Phidippus spiders play a significant role in controlling insect populations within their habitats.

Cultural Significance

The genus name Phidippus is etymologically derived from Ancient Greek, meaning 'one who spares horses', possibly referencing a historical figure in Cicero's writings.

Evolution

Phidippus is part of the family Salticidae, known for their advanced vision and jumping behavior, which has evolved in various species for hunting and avoidance of predators.

Similar Taxa

Salticidae

Misconceptions

Some species previously thought to belong to Phidippus are actually misplaced and are not part of this genus, particularly those from India and Bangladesh.