Harmochirus brachiatus, commonly known as the bristled or brush-legged jumping spider, is a species within the family Salticidae, which is renowned for its diversity, excellent vision, and remarkable jumping ability. Harmochirus brachiatus is a small jumping spider, notable for its distinctive front legs that are fringed with long bristles, which it uses in courtship displays and possibly to aid in hunting. This species, like other jumping spiders, has excellent vision, facilitated by large anterior median eyes, allowing it to detect movement and detail from a distance.
Jumping Spiders
Harmochirus brachiatus
Classification
KINGDOM
:
Animalia
PHYLUM
:
Arthropoda
CLASS
:
Arachnida
ORDER
:
Araneae
FAMILY
:
Salticidae
GENUS
:
Harmochirus
SPECIES
:
Harmochirus brachiatus
Other Information
Venomous?
As with all jumping spiders, Harmochirus brachiatus is venomous, using its venom to immobilize prey. However, the venom is not considered dangerous to humans, typically causing no more than minor symptoms such as localized pain or swelling if a bite occurs.
A Danger to Humans?
Harmochirus brachiatus 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 Harmochirus brachiatus is not widely available. However, jumping spiders tend to adapt well to a variety of environments, suggesting potentially stable populations where conditions are favorable.
Jumping Spiders (Harmochirus brachiatus), Photo by David Lowenthal
Life Span:
The lifespan of jumping spiders, including Harmochirus brachiatus, 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 Harmochirus brachiatus likely reaching a body length of about 4 to 5 mm. Specific weight data is rarely noted due to their small size.
Distribution:
Harmochirus brachiatus is found in various parts of Asia, including India, China, and Southeast Asia. Its habitat ranges from forests to gardens and sometimes human-inhabited areas where it can find shelter and prey.
Jumping Spiders (Harmochirus brachiatus), Photo by David Lowenthal
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 brush-legged feature is distinctive during courtship displays.
Diet and Nutrition:
The diet consists primarily of small insects. They are active hunters, relying on their vision to spot prey and their agility to capture it.
Mating Habits:
Mating behavior in Harmochirus brachiatus involves complex visual displays, where males use their fringed front legs in a series of elaborate dances to attract females. The success of these courtship rituals is crucial for mating.