Phidippus regius (Regal Jumping Spider)

TAXONOMY​

• Kingdom: Animalia (Animals)

• Phylum: Arthropoda (Arthropods)

• Class: Arachnida (Arachnids)

• Order: Araneae (Spiders)

• Family: Salticidae (Jumping Spiders)

• Genus: Phidippus

• Species: regius

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This classification places the Regal Jumping Spider within the order Araneae (spiders) and the family Salticidae (jumping spiders), which are known for their excellent vision, agility, and unique hunting techniques. The "regius" in its scientific name reflects its regal appearance and distinctive markings.

 

PHYSICAL APPEARANCE

The Regal Jumping Spider (Phidippus regius) is a visually striking and charismatic arachnid species, known for its distinctive appearance. Here's a description of its physical features:

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• Size: Adult females range from 7 to 22 mm (0.28–0.87 in) in body length and average 15 mm (0.59 in). Adult males range from 6 to 18 mm (0.24–0.71 in) and average 12 mm (0.47 in)

• Coloration: Regals are sexually dimorphic from i4 or i5 on. Males are primarily black with bold and contrasting markings. Females vary from gray, tan, brown, to orange, pink, and red. Regals can have chelicerae that are blue, teal, green, gold, purple, pink, red and orange. Although females can have green and blue which are commonly seen in males, males are not noted to have the pinks and reds.

• Markings: The cephalothorax features intricate white markings that may resemble a crown or other patterns, giving it the "regal" appearance. Additionally, there are often white stripes or bands on the abdomen.

• Eyes: Regal Jumping Spiders have large, forward-facing eyes with excellent vision, especially for detecting prey and navigating their surroundings.

• Legs: They have eight long and agile legs, which are well-suited for their jumping abilities. The legs are typically black with some white or light-colored bands.

 

BEHAVIOUR

These spiders are known for their curiosity and inquisitive behavior. They are excellent hunters, relying on their keen eyesight to stalk and pounce on prey.The striking colors and patterns, especially the iridescent chelicerae and crown-like markings on the cephalothorax, make the Regal Jumping Spider one of the most visually impressive and recognizable jumping spider species.

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RANGE

Regals are native to the southeastern United States (Florida, Georgia, and South Carolina), and much of the Carribean. Its range includes states such as Florida, Georgia, and South Carolina. Regals do not range into northern US states or Canada.

 

LEGAL STATUS IN CANADA​

Arachnids are not regulated in Canada.