Hippasa holmerae is a species within the genus Hippasa, part of the family Lycosidae, commonly known as wolf spiders. Wolf spiders are known for their robust hunting skills, excellent eyesight, and tendency to roam freely in search of prey rather than spinning webs to catch it. Hippasa holmerae, like other wolf spiders, likely has a camouflage coloration that aids in its hunting lifestyle. These spiders have a distinctive eye arrangement that provides them with excellent nocturnal vision.
Lawn Wolf Spider
Hippasa holmerae
Classification
KINGDOM
:
Animalia
PHYLUM
:
Arthropoda
CLASS
:
Arachnida
ORDER
:
Araneae
FAMILY
:
Lycosidae
GENUS
:
Hippasa
SPECIES
:
Hippasa holmerae
Other Information
Venomous?
As with most wolf spiders, Hippasa holmerae is venomous, using its venom to immobilize prey. However, the venom is not considered dangerous to humans, usually causing no more than minor symptoms such as localized pain or swelling if a bite occurs.
A Danger to Humans?
Hippasa holmerae poses minimal danger to humans. These spiders are not aggressive towards humans and tend to flee rather than bite. Bites are rare and typically happen only if the spider is provoked or accidentally pressed against human skin.
Population Status
Specific data on the population size of Hippasa holmerae is not widely available. However, wolf spiders, in general, tend to have healthy populations in suitable habitats, indicating potentially stable populations where environmental conditions are favorable.
Lawn Wolf Spider (Hippasa holmerae), Photo by David Lowenthal
Life Span:
The lifespan of wolf spiders, including those in the Hippasa genus, can vary but is generally around 1-2 years, with some variation depending on environmental factors and predation pressures.
Weight and Length:
Wolf spiders can vary in size, with some species reaching body lengths of more than 30 mm. However, many species, including Hippasa holmerae, are likely to be smaller, with body lengths more commonly in the range of 10-20 mm.
Distribution:
Hippasa holmerae is found in specific regions, though the exact distribution may depend on environmental preferences and habitat availability. Wolf spiders are adaptable and can be found in a variety of environments, including forests, grasslands, and sometimes within human habitats.
Habits and Lifestyle:
Wolf spiders, including Hippasa holmerae, are solitary hunters that roam at night to catch prey. They rely on their speed and camouflage rather than webs to catch food. During the day, they may hide under rocks, leaves, or in burrows.
Diet and Nutrition:
Their diet consists primarily of insects and other small arthropods. Wolf spiders use their speed and agility to capture prey, often pouncing on it from a short distance.
Mating Habits:
Mating behavior in wolf spiders involves complex courtship rituals, with males often performing specific dances or vibrations to attract females. After mating, female wolf spiders carry their egg sacs attached to their spinnerets, and the young spiders may ride on the mother’s back for a short period after hatching.