Are you interested in learning more about Hyllus semicupreus?
This species originates from Southeast Asian countries and requires careful observation to care for.
In this article, you will find comprehensive information about Heavy-bodied Jumper care, including diet, handling, housing, disease prevention, and resources.
Keep reading to learn all you need to know about caring for this type of pet jumping spider.
| Characteristics: | |
|---|---|
| Common Name | Heavy-bodied Jumper |
| Family Name | Salticidae |
| Scientific Name | Hyllus semicupreus |
| Use | Pets |
| Temperament | Non-aggressive |
| Lifespan | 1 to 2 Years |
| Diet | Insectivore |
| Adult Size | 7-9mm |
| Breeding Type | Egg Layer |
| Care Level | Moderate |
| Minimum Tank Size | 10 Gallon |
| pH | 6.7-7.5 |
| Hardness | Moderate |
| Temperature | 70-80°F |
What Are Heavy-bodied Jumpers?
The Heavy-bodied Jumper is one of Southeast Asia’s most unique species of spiders.
It is also known by its scientific name Hyllus semicupreus and is part of the family Salticidae.
This species is distinguishable by its unique heavy, hooked forelegs and its large size.
The common name of ‘Heavy-bodied Jumper’ originates from the spider’s heavy body and its ability to jump.
It’s also known for its speed, jumping from one place to another, often crossing long distances quickly.
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What Do Heavy-bodied Jumpers Look Like?
Hyllus semicupreus has a robust body that is usually light in color, with patches of reddish-brown or black.
On average, they grow up to 7-9 mm in size, with the female spiders being larger than the males.
They have eight legs that are hairy and strong, able to carry the spider’s weight even when disturbed.
Their abdomens are usually round and broad, and their cephalothorax is dry and slightly flattened.
Their chelicerae are curved and strong, perfect for catching prey.
They also have a moderately large set of eyes with a ring of black around each.
In short, the Heavy-bodied Jumper is a striking species with unique anatomy and distinctive markings.
Benefits Of Using Heavy-bodied Jumpers
Hyllus semicupreus make great additions to vivariums.
These arboreal spiders are not particularly fast, meaning they are suitable for even the most inexperienced hobbyists.
They are also relatively easy to care for, needing basic web-building supplies, a well-regulated environment, and an occasional dusting with calcium and vitamin powder for a complete diet.
Heavy-bodied Jumpers can also help keep tanks clean as they are clean eaters and do not scavenge, meaning they won’t bring in any potential contaminants.
They are also quite docile and gentle so that they won’t frighten or injure other tank mates.
As a result, Heavy-bodied Jumpers make the perfect companion to any enclosure.
Hyllus semicupreus Facts
The Heavy-bodied Jumper is a species of spider native to Southeast Asia.
They are known for their large, black-and-tan bodies and diet of invertebrates, fruit, and nectar.
These spiders are known to be docile and relatively easy to handle, with a lifespan of several years.
Breeding success is often hard to come by, partly because females tend to live much longer than males.
Habitat
Hyllus semicupreus is a species of spider native to Southeast Asian countries such as Thailand and Indonesia.
The H. semicupreus is a reclusive species and prefers to live undisturbed in humid environments that typically have a temperature range between 70 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit.
In their natural habitat, they are most often found living in tree trunks, rock crevices, and foliage.
They have also been known to inhabit caves, but typically only when other populations of the species are nearby.
The Hyllus semicupreus is preyed upon by other predatory spiders, yet benefits from improved habitat structure in those areas that experience frequent rainfall.
The spider’s diet consists of small insects and other arachnids, and their predatory behavior helps keep populations of other harmful insects in check.
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Diet
Heavy-bodied Jumpers eat a diet that suits their predatory lifestyle in their natural habitat.
These mini spiders feed mainly on insects such as grasshoppers, moths, crickets, and other ground-feeding arthropods.
They also eat small lizards and other vertebrates.
Temperament
The Heavy-bodied Jumper is a friendly, curious species when around humans.
They are known to be calm and docile, making them a suitable choice for beginner and experienced owners.
With regular handling, they become quite comfortable with people, often even becoming sociable.
However, as with any species, handling should be done with careful observation of their behavior.
Hyllus semicupreus may get aggressive towards other jumpers in the same enclosure and may even show signs of aggression towards other animals, especially if they are in an environment that is too overcrowded.
Therefore, it is recommended to house them with only those of the same species and to provide enough space for them to live comfortably.
If you plan to house them with other animals of different species, always monitor the interactions as Heavy-bodied jumpers can become territorial.
Lifespan
Hyllus semicupreus are short-lived arachnids, typically living only one to two years in captivity.
In the wild, the average lifespan is believed to be much shorter, as this species can suffer from drought and predation.
Their life cycle consists of a few main stages: egg, juvenile, and then adult. Eggs are laid in the soil and need a humid environment to hatch.
The spiderlings grow for a few weeks, then form into young juveniles which then develop into adults.
Hyllus semicupreus typically completes one full life cycle in eight to twelve weeks.
Adults often mate before dying, and the female will lay up to 20 eggs at a time in the soil.
The eggs usually hatch within seven to ten days and the cycle begins again.
The Heavy-bodied Jumper’s life span and overall developmental timeline can be easily altered by various environmental factors like temperature, humidity, food sources, and overcrowding.
It is important to provide an optimal habitat to ensure the spider’s health, longevity, and successful reproduction.
Breeding
The mating habits of Hyllus semicupreus can be complex and hard to observe.
This bond between the male and female is maintained by participating in occasional mating rituals and sharing food.
When the pair is ready to reproduce, the female will create a webbing in her chosen location and the male will follow.
The female will then lay her eggs in the webbing and the pair will guard them until they are mature enough to survive on their own.
They tend to reproduce multiple times a year with clutches ranging from several to dozens of eggs, although this varies somewhat depending on the particular female.
The male will protect the eggs from predators and adjust their webbing as necessary to maintain a safe environment for the eggs to incubate.
Where To Find Heavy-bodied Jumpers
Hyllus semicupreus can be found in the wild throughout Southeast Asia, including Indonesia, Burma, and Thailand.
They have a habitat preference for tropical forests, and may also be found in more urban areas such as gardens.
Heavy-bodied jumpers are also available for sale in pet stores or online.
It is important to be aware of regulations when buying H. semicupreus; many countries, states, and provinces may have laws in place to protect them and limit their sale.
Before purchasing a Hyllus semicupreus, you should check the regulations in your local area.
When purchasing these types of spiders, remember to only buy from reputable and certified sources.
The animal should look healthy, with a smooth coat and clear eyes.
Hyllus semicupreus Care
When caring for Hyllus semicupreus, providing a diet of live insects, adequate housing, correct handling techniques, and a clean environment are essential.
Regular monitoring and disease prevention strategies should also be employed to keep the Heavy-bodied Jumpers healthy.
Tank Requirements
When creating the ideal tank for Heavy-bodied Jumpers, the best type of vivarium is an enclosure of at least 10 gallons and a tight-fitted lid.
The pH of the water given should be between 6.5 and 7.5, the water hardness should be between 3-4 dGH, and the temperature should be between 70-80 degrees Fahrenheit.
The substrate can include a peat moss or coco fiber mix, and the enclosure should have an adequate air flow rate.
For light, a simple terrarium light setup can be used within the enclosure to provide low intensity.
What Do Heavy-bodied Jumpers Eat?
Feeding Hyllus semicupreus is an essential part of taking care of your precious pet.
Heavy-bodied Jumper’s diet is made up of a range of commercially available food, as well as nutritious fruits, vegetables, and common insects.
Feeding your jumper the right diet will ensure that your pet remains healthy and active.
Here is a list of items you can feed Hyllus semicupreus:
- Commercially Available Food: Proprietary diets for spiders, tarantulas, and scorpions are available in pet stores.
- Fruits: apples, oranges, bananas, watermelons
- Vegetables: carrots, lettuce, kale, spinach
- Insects: crickets, mealworms, waxworms, superworms
If you’re looking for a more detailed approach to feeding these critters, be sure to check out my ultimate DIY jumping spider food guide. I give a more in-depth explanation of the best foods and my favorite recipe.
Best Tankmates For Heavy-bodied Jumpers
Hyllus semicupreus can make excellent companions for other animals in the same species or other species of similar size and beneficial qualities.
These animals tend to prefer tankmates that have similar requirements and can thrive in the same environment.
The safest and most beneficial tankmates for Hyllus semicupreus are peaceful, non-aggressive species that prefer the same environment.
Some good tankmates for Hyllus semicupreus are tank cleaners such as springtails and other invertebrates, as well as isopods and millipedes.
Invertebrates, such as terrarium snails, can also help keep the tank clean and won’t disturb the jumper’s habitat.
However, it’s important to avoid any aggressive or territorial species with Hyllus semicupreus which could pose a threat to the spider’s safety.
Conclusion
We hope the information presented in this article can help you better understand the needs of Heavy-bodied Jumpers and transform them into happy pets.
Please remember to do your research and consult with a veterinarian if you have any additional questions or concerns.
Hyllus semicupreus make excellent companions and with the right care and attention, they can be an enjoyable addition to your family.
Create the ideal habitat for your arachnids with our species-specific soil mixes and Spider Enclosure Kits. These products provide everything you need for a thriving spider habitat.
