Phidippus regius - Care

Care Guide for Phidippus Regius

Index

  1. Introduction to Phidippus Regius
  2. Environmental Preferences
    • Humidity
    • Temperature Regulation
    • Hydration Method
  3. Nutritional Considerations
  4. Enclosure Design and Social Behavior
  5. Interaction and Exercise
  6. Species Suitability
  7. Essential Equipment Breakdown
    • Greenhouse for Temperature and Humidity Control
    • Heating
    • Lighting
    • Humidity Monitoring
    • Humidity Control
    • Setup Instructions
    • Total Cost Breakdown
  8. Word Guide

Introduction to Phidippus Regius

Phidippus Regius, known for its royal demeanor and striking appearance, is a species that thrives in the subtropical regions of the American continent. Unlike desert-dwelling spiders, Phidippus Regius requires higher humidity, and prolonged exposure to low humidity can harm them. This guide outlines the care essentials for Phidippus Regius, with a focus on mimicking their subtropical environment.

Environmental Preferences

Humidity

The optimal humidity level for Phidippus regius is around 75%. While they can survive at lower levels (down to 50%), maintaining a range between 65-75% promotes their overall health. It’s essential not to let the enclosure become too wet, as that can be fatal. These spiders will seek shelter from excessive moisture.

Jumping spiders often create thicker webs to regulate their own humidity. If the enclosure's humidity is too low (below 50%) or too high (causing condensation on the walls), it can be adjusted by adding dry materials or misting appropriately.

Temperature Regulation

Phidippus Regius prefers temperatures between 75-85°F (24-29°C) during the day and 70-75°F (21-24°C) at night. A grow tent or controlled environment is recommended to maintain these subtropical conditions year-round.

Hydration Method

Regular misting of the enclosure is necessary to maintain humidity and hydration. Mist one corner of the enclosure using a fine mist sprayer, ensuring that the spider itself does not get wet. Coordinate misting with feedings to keep hydration levels balanced.

Nutritional Considerations

Phidippus Regius, being larger than many other jumping spiders, should be fed appropriately sized insects. Their diet should include flies, crickets, roaches, and mealworms, offered 2-3 times a week. Variety in their diet is important for their overall well-being. Pre-killed prey can also be provided, which many captive-bred spiders will accept.

Enclosure Design and Social Behavior

Phidippus Regius does not exhibit communal tendencies and will often fight as early as the i3 instar stage. Therefore, each spider should be housed individually in a spacious enclosure that mimics a subtropical environment with plants, warmth, and humidity to encourage natural behaviors.

Interaction and Exercise

Regular interaction outside of the enclosure can promote physical health and reduce stress. However, care must be taken to prevent injury or escape during handling.

Species Suitability

Phidippus Regius is ideal for enthusiasts who are willing to invest in creating a controlled environment, much like caring for tropical plants. Their higher demands for humidity and warmth make them slightly more challenging but rewarding to care for.

Essential Equipment Breakdown

1. Greenhouse for Temperature and Humidity Control

Äkerbär Greenhouse from Ikea
Price: $45 CAD
Shipping: $20 CAD if not picked up locally.
Compact, aesthetically pleasing, and effective for humidity and temperature control.

2. Heating

VIVOSUN 10"x20.75" Seedling Heat Mat and Digital Thermostat Combo Set
Price: $40 CAD
Ensures a consistent, warm environment and promotes humidity.

3. Lighting

Aokrean Grow Lights for Indoor Plants
Price: Under $40 CAD
Adjustable full-spectrum lights for optimal lighting conditions.

4. Humidity Monitoring

Hygrometer
Price: $10-20 CAD
Essential for monitoring humidity levels within the enclosure.

5. Humidity Control

Small Atomizer
Price: $5-15 CAD
Used for misting to maintain desired humidity levels.
Optional: Small Humidifier
Price: $40-70 CAD
Optional for automated humidity control.

Setup Instructions

Set up the greenhouse in a well-ventilated area away from drafts.
Install the heat mat and thermostat to maintain a temperature of 77-86°F.
Position the grow lights to mimic daylight.
Monitor humidity with the hygrometer, misting as needed to maintain levels between 65-85%.
Ensure airflow by leaving the greenhouse door slightly open.

Total Cost Breakdown

Item Cost (CAD)
Äkerbär Greenhouse $45 (tax included)
VIVOSUN Seedling Heat Mat & Thermostat $40
Aokrean Grow Lights (2-Pack) $40
Hygrometer $10-20
Small Atomizer $10-15
Optional: Small Humidifier $40-70 (optional)
Shipping Costs (if applicable) $20 for Greenhouse
Total (minimum essentials) ~$145-160 CAD

Word Guide

  • Instar: A stage in the development of an arthropod between two molts. For spiders, this refers to the growth stage between each shedding of their exoskeleton.
  • Penultimate: Refers to the second-to-last molt in a spider's development, just before they reach their final adult form.