Tan Jumping (Platycryptus undatus)

Tan jumping spiders are super interesting! They hop around and belong to the jumping spider family. You can find them in places like North and Central America. Join us to uncover cool details about these jumpy little creatures!

Scientific Classification

• Family: Salticidae
• Genus: Platycryptus
• Scientific name: Platycryptus undatus

Physical Description and Identification

Adults

• Size: Female tan jumping spiders are 0.39-0.51 inches (10-13 mm), and males are 0.33-0.37 inches (8.5-9.5 mm).
• Color: They have a brown, tan, or gray body with white and black flecks and red patches, especially around their eyes.
• Other Characteristic Features: Their body remains compressed vertically, while their abdomens have vertical patterns making it difficult to distinguish them when they move on mottled surfaces. 

Eggs

During the summer season, eggs are laid in silken sacs mostly created under trees.

Photo Credit: .BlackCat.

Spiderlings

Young spiders hatch in the same summer, especially after 3-4 weeks of birth.

The Web

Tan jumping spiders do not build webs, like other spiders of their family. Rather they wait for the prey and attack them at the slightest available opportunity.

Are Tan Jumping Spiders Venomous?

Yes, Tan Jumping spiders have venom. But for humans, it’s usually very mild. They mostly use it to catch their tiny prey.

Can Tan Jumping Spiders Bite?

Tan Jumping spiders can bite if they’re startled. The bite might feel like a little pinch, but typically, it’s not a big concern for most people.

Ecological Importance and Behavior of Tan Jumping Spider

Tan Jumping Spiders play a crucial role in controlling the population of smaller spiders and maintaining ecological balance. They are diurnal hunters, actively pursuing prey during the day. Their impressive jumping ability, combined with excellent vision, makes them formidable predators in their tiny world.

Natural Predators and Prey-Predator Dynamics: In the wild, Tan Jumping Spiders face threats from birds, wasps, reptiles, and larger mammals. Their agility and cryptic coloration are their main defenses, helping them evade predators while they hunt for prey.

Relationship with Humans: Though Tan Jumping Spiders are venomous, their bite is not harmful to humans, and they are generally not considered a threat. In fact, their presence can be beneficial in controlling the population of other, potentially more harmful spiders.

Quick Facts

Did You Know

• Their eyes sometimes give them 360° views.
• The undulating pattern on their abdomen earns its scientific name  ‘undatus’.
• Their tan or brown coloration helps them camouflage well with the barks of trees.

In conclusion, the Tan Jumping Spider is a remarkable species, showcasing incredible agility and unique adaptations that enable it to thrive in its environment.