Peppered Jumping Spider

Phidippus mystaceus

True spiderbeginnerVenom: Mild

About

A fuzzy North American jumper, brown to gray with three sets of black-and-white abdominal markings; females show a reddish 'mustache' below the eyes. Found in open grasslands across the southeast. Species-specific husbandry is sparse, so this follows standard, well-established Phidippus care: a tall, well-lit enclosure with climbing decor, room temperature, moderate humidity from a light mist every 2-3 days for drinking. Diurnal visual hunter, bold and curious, harmless with mild venom. A great beginner jumper.

Taxonomy

FamilySalticidae

GenusPhidippus

Native regionSoutheastern & central North America

TypeArboreal

Temperamentbold, curious; harmless

Size & growth

Adult size~10 mm body

Length7.00–11.00 mm

Growth ratefast

Climate

Temperature70–82 °F

Humidity50–60%

Enclosure

Adult size4x4x8 inches (vertical)

Substratecoco fiber; vertical decor for climbing + silk retreats; light mist for drinking

Substrate depth1-2 inches

Water dishOptional

Feeding

Feeding modePredator (live prey)

Prey sizeflies, fruit flies, small crickets, roach nymphs

Adult cadence2-3 prey per week

Times kept: 0