Siler semiglaucus, commonly known as the metallic jumper or Jade Jumping Spider, is a species within the family Salticidae, which is known for its diverse and visually-oriented members, the jumping spiders. This particular species is noted for its distinctive metallic sheen and interesting behaviors. Siler semiglaucus is a small jumping spider, identifiable by its bright, metallic blue or green coloration, which can appear quite striking. Like all jumping spiders, it has excellent vision, which it uses for hunting and navigating its environment.
Jade Jumping Spider
Siler semiglaucus
Classification
KINGDOM
:
Animalia
PHYLUM
:
Arthropoda
CLASS
:
Arachnida
ORDER
:
Araneae
FAMILY
:
Salticidae
GENUS
:
Siler
SPECIES
:
Siler semiglaucus
Other Information
Venomous?
As with all jumping spiders, Siler semiglaucus is venomous, utilizing its venom to immobilize prey. However, the venom is not dangerous to humans, typically causing no more than minor symptoms such as localized pain or swelling if a bite occurs.
A Danger to Humans?
Siler semiglaucus poses minimal danger to humans. These spiders are not aggressive towards humans and tend to flee rather than bite. Bites are rare and not considered medically significant.
Population Status
Specific data on the population size of Siler semiglaucus is not widely available. However, jumping spiders tend to adapt well to a variety of environments, suggesting potentially stable populations where conditions are favorable.
Jade Jumping Spider (Siler semiglaucus), Photo by David Lowenthal
Life Span:
The lifespan of jumping spiders, including Siler semiglaucus, can vary but generally spans about 1-2 years, encompassing several stages from egg to adult.
Weight and Length:
Jumping spiders are generally small, with Siler semiglaucus likely reaching a body length of about 3 to 8 mm. Specific weight data is rarely noted due to their small size.
Distribution:
Siler semiglaucus is found in Southeast Asia, including regions such as Singapore, Thailand, Philippines and the Indonesia (Bali). Its habitat ranges from forests to gardens and human-inhabited areas where it can find shelter and prey.
Habits and Lifestyle:
This species is diurnal, actively hunting during the day. It does not spin webs to catch prey but rather uses its jumping ability to ambush or chase down insects. Its metallic coloring may also play a role in mating displays or territorial behavior.
Diet and Nutrition:
The diet consists primarily of insects and possibly nectar, a dietary habit observed in some jumping spider species. They are active hunters, stalking prey before making a quick leap to capture it.
Mating Habits:
Mating behavior in jumping spiders involves complex visual displays, where males perform dances and exhibit their colorful patterns to attract females. The success of these courtship rituals is crucial for mating.