jumping spider

any of several small, hairy spiders, of the family Salticidae, that stalk and jump upon their prey instead of snaring it in a web.

[1805-15]

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▪ arachnid

 any of about 3,000 species of spiders (order Araneida) known for their ability to jump and pounce upon their prey. They range in size from 3 to 17 mm (0.12 to 0.67 inch), although most are small to medium-sized. They are very common in the tropics, but many also live in northern and even Arctic regions. The hairy body is often brightly coloured or strikingly patterned. Jumping spiders have keen vision for spiders and are active during the day in sunny areas. At night they hide in closely woven nests under bark, stones, or leaves. Several members of the same species often build nests close together.

      Males and females of the species Phintella vittata are able to detect ultraviolet light from the so-called UVB band (315–280 nm) and have specialized surfaces on their bodies to reflect it. The reflection of UVB radiation by males during courtship has been shown to enhance their ability to attract females.

      The minute jumping spiders, family Oonopidae, are found in the tropics in leaf litter and in buildings.

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