Phidippus octopunctatus

Classification

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

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Phidippus octopunctatus: /ˈfɪdɪpəs ɒktoʊˈpʌŋkteɪtəs/

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Summary

Phidippus octopunctatus is a large jumping spider native to the Great Basin Desert, known for its distinct nesting behavior and hunting of large prey.

Physical Characteristics

Approaching 25 millimetres (0.98 in) in body length; gray to brownish-gray in color.

Identification Tips

Distinguished from Phidippus californicus by its large and prominent nest among branches, which houses its egg cocoon.

Habitat

Occurs mostly in the Great Basin Desert.

Distribution

Iowa and Missouri west to Washington and California and south into Mexico.

Diet

Hunts large prey such as grasshoppers and bees.

Life Cycle

Adult males and unmated adult and subadult females are observed in late August.

Reproduction

Builds a large and prominent nest among the branches of a bush to house its egg cocoon.

Ecosystem Role

As a predator, contributes to controlling populations of insects, particularly larger prey.

Similar Taxa

Phidippus californicus