Genus Carrhotus

Carrhotus is a genus of jumping spiders within the family Salticidae, subfamily Salticinae, tribe Salticini (Order Araneae, Suborder Araneomorphae). The genus is distributed mainly in the Old World, particularly across South and Southeast Asia, East Asia, and parts of Africa, and is most commonly encountered in tropical and subtropical regions.

Species of Carrhotus are diurnal, visually oriented hunters that rely on stalking and precise jumping to capture prey. Like other jumping spiders, they do not build prey-capture webs. They are typically found on tree trunks, foliage, shrubs, walls, and other vertical surfaces, including in gardens and urban environments.

Morphologically, Carrhotus spiders are generally medium-sized for salticids, with a robust and compact body form. The carapace is relatively high and broad, giving the spiders a sturdy appearance. The abdomen is oval to slightly elongated and often bears subtle patterning. Coloration is usually earthy—brown, gray, or black—sometimes accented with lighter bands or patches, making them well camouflaged on bark or walls.

The anterior median eyes are large and forward-facing, providing excellent visual acuity. Legs are strong and moderately long, adapted for jumping and rapid movement, with the first pair often more robust and used during courtship or prey capture.

Male genitalia possess palpal structures characteristic of Salticini, particularly in the shape and placement of the embolus and tibial apophysis. Female genitalia are fully entelegyne, with a distinct epigyne and internal duct systems that are important for species-level identification.

Behaviorally, Carrhotus species exhibit typical salticid courtship behaviors, including leg movements and body posturing, though their displays are generally less flamboyant than those of some brightly colored jumping spiders.

Ecologically, members of Carrhotus are effective predators of small insects and contribute to arthropod population control in a wide range of vegetated and human-modified habitats. The genus represents a sturdy, adaptable lineage within Salticini, well suited to life on vertical surfaces in diverse environments.