Phidippus johnsoni
Classification
- Phylum: Arthropoda
- Subphylum: Chelicerata
- Class: Arachnida
- Order: Araneae
- Infraorder: Araneomorphae
- Family: Salticidae
- Genus: Phidippus
- Species: johnsoni
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Phidippus johnsoni: /ˈfɪdɪpəs ˈdʒɒnsəni/
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Summary
Phidippus johnsoni, commonly known as the red-backed jumping spider or Johnson jumping spider, is one of the largest jumping spiders found in western North America. It is notable for its coloration and aggressive behavior.
Physical Characteristics
Adults tend to be about 9-14 mm in length. Both sexes have a bright red abdomen; the female has an additional black central stripe. The chelicerae of both sexes are of a shining teal color, and the rest of the body is mostly black.
Identification Tips
The male's abdomen is entirely red, while the female's abdomen has a black mark down the center. It can be confused with the venomous redback spider but is distinguishable by its size and coloration.
Habitat
Relatively dry habitats such as coastal dunes or oak woodlands; constructs tubular silken nests under rocks, wood, and grape vines.
Distribution
From Nunavut south to California and Arizona, and as far east as western South Dakota. Distribution bounded by the Great Plains, Pacific Ocean, northern Mexico, and southern Canada.
Diet
Feeds on a variety of insects, including flies, bugs, moth caterpillars, and occasionally other spiders; exhibits cannibalism, with females occasionally feeding on males.
Life Cycle
Food variations observed from juvenile to adult; molting, egg laying, and sometimes courtship occur inside nests.
Reproduction
Mating and courtship behaviors occur inside the silken nests constructed by the spiders.
Ecosystem Role
Predator of various insects and other spiders, contributing to ecological balance.
Health Concerns
Not harmful to humans but may inflict a painful bite if provoked; reported to be more aggressive than other jumping spider species.
Collecting Methods
- Hand collection
- Sweep netting
- Pitfall traps
Preservation Methods
- Ethanol fixation
- Air drying
- Slide mounting
Misconceptions
Not to be confused with the redback spider (Latrodectus hasselti), which is venomous.
Tags
- jumping spider
- Phidippus
- arachnology
- North America
- predator