What Size Are Jumping Spiders?
WouterJumping spiders are the largest spider family on earth. They are a group of over 6,000 species identified by science. Although their appearance can vary widely, they all share the ability to leap.
The most distinguishing feature of jumping spiders is the shape of their eyes. Generally, the eyes are forward looking and located on a flat face. These eyes are the best of any spider, enabling the spider to detect distances and movement.
The largest pair of eyes is found on the center of the front of the spider’s forehead. The middle pair is slightly smaller. The next pair is very small. The outermost pair is a little more than halfway up the spider’s head.
These large, well-developed eyes allow the spider to see and hunt with incredible clarity. Unlike other spiders, which use their eyes to avoid predators, jumping spiders use their eyes to stalk and attack their prey.
Jumping spiders have short legs and a compact, black body. They can be brown or gray, or sometimes they have white markings. They are usually very small, but can range in size from a few millimeters to more than two inches.
They are venomous, but the venom is not strong enough to harm humans. They are also very friendly. Many people keep jumping spiders as pets. They are commonly kept in the east, especially in North America.
The bright colors used by jumping spiders help attract females. The pheromones that they emit are also a part of reproductive behavior. In addition, jumping spiders impregnate their silk line with pheromones. These pheromones are thought to play a role in navigation.
