White Banded Fishing (Dolomedes albineus)

The white banded fishing spider is a cool member of the nursery web spider group. Guess where it’s from? The United States of America! Join us as we uncover exciting details about this unique spider!

Scientific Classification

• Family: Pisauridae
• Genus: Dolomedes
• Scientific name: Dolomedes albineus

Physical Description and Identification

Adults

• Size: Females measuring 23 mm (.90 inches) approximately are slightly larger than males who are 18 mm (.70 inches) long.
• Color: Their color is variable as some may be brown while a few are mossy green with dark markings. It has a white band in the area below its eyes, around the jaws, and even on its entire carapace at times apart from the center which has a black spot.
• Other Characteristic Features: A remarkable trait is the elevated position of the cephalic region in the cephalothorax, which stands prominently higher than the rest of its body structure.

Eggs

The eggs are small and round remaining in the egg sac guarded by the female.

Spiderlings

The spiderlings disperse after their first molt outside the egg sac.

The Web

Though the white banded fishing spider builds webs, it is not used for catching prey since they hunt them down.

Are White Banded Fishing Spiders Venomous?

Yes, White Banded Fishing spiders have venom. But for most people, it isn’t very strong. They use it mainly to help catch their food.

Can White Banded Fishing Spiders Bite?

Like most other species of nursery web spiders, these spiders can bite, especially if disturbed. The bite might be a bit itchy or cause a small bump, but it’s typically not a big worry for most folks.

Ecological Importance and Behavior of White Banded Fishing Spider

The white banded fishing spider plays a crucial role in maintaining the balance of aquatic ecosystems. It helps control the population of insects and small fish, ensuring a stable and healthy environment. These spiders exhibit unique behaviors, such as the ability to walk on water, aiding them in hunting and escaping predators.

Natural Predator: Birds and larger arachnids pose as natural predators to the white banded fishing spider. These threats have led the spider to develop agile movements and a keen sense of awareness, traits that are vital for survival.

Prey-Predator Dynamics: The relationship between the white banded fishing spider and its prey is a classic example of the delicate balance in nature. The spider helps control the population of its prey, preventing overpopulation and the subsequent strain on the ecosystem.

Relationship with Humans: While their venomous bite may cause concern, the white banded fishing spider poses minimal risk to humans. They are not aggressive and tend to keep to themselves, residing in their preferred aquatic habitats. 

Quick Facts

Did You Know

• The white banded fishing spider has the incredible ability to walk on water! Thanks to the unique structure of its hairs and the way it distributes its weight, this spider can glide smoothly across the surface of water, aiding it in hunting aquatic prey and evading predators.
• These spiders are highly sensitive to vibrations in the water, which helps them detect the presence of prey or danger.

In summary, the white banded fishing spider is a remarkable creature, showcasing the intricate and balanced nature of ecosystems.