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Spitting spider

Spitting spider

Scytodes thoracica

A species of Scytodes

The spitting spider got its name from its unusual hunting strategy of spitting venomous silk over its prey. Unlike other spiders, it has silk glands that are connected to its venom glands. The female spitting spider carries its eggs, wrapped in a silk net, under her abdomen. It also prefers warmer areas.

Toxic to Animals
Toxic to Animals
Bite Humans
Bite Humans
General Info About Spitting spider
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Attributes of Spitting spider
Colors
Brown
Black
Habitat
indoors and outdoors
Adult Food Sources
Various small insects, crickets, cockroaches, moths, small spiders
Larva Food Source
Small insects, fruit flies, mites, small caterpillars, springtails
Biting/stinging
Not reported
Allergy-causing
Not reported
Pollinator
Not reported
Pest-Eating Predatory
Not reported
Phytophagous
Not reported
Predatory
The Spitting spider typically preys on other arthropods and does not directly affect plants.
Biting animal or pet
Yes
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Species Status of Spitting spider
It has a wide distribution: found in Europe, North Africa, Turkey, temperate Asia to China, Korea, Japan. Introduced to North America, Argentina, India, Australia, New Zealand.
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Adult Size of Spitting spider
3 - 6 mm
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Predators of Spitting spider Larvae
Frogs, toads, lizards, birds, larger spiders, ants, wasps
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Predators of Adult Spitting spider
Birds, lizards, large spiders, centipedes, mammals (such as shrews), wasps
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Interesting Facts About Spitting spider
Spitting spider can spit a venomous and sticky substance over distances up to 20 times its body length to capture prey.
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Scientific Classification of Spitting spider
Tips for Finding Spitting spider
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Youth Habitat of Spitting spider
Forests and Woodlands, Urban and Suburban Areas, Caves and Subterranean Areas
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When is the Best Time to Observe Spitting spider
The best time to find spitting spider would likely be at night or during the evening and early morning when it is most active and out hunting for prey.
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What is the Best Weather to Observe Spitting spider
Moist, temperate conditions may make it easier to find spitting spider, as it prefers environments that are not too dry and can be found indoors or in caves where the humidity is higher.
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How and Where Can You Find Spitting spider at Different Life Stages
Juvenile Juvenile spitting spider can be smaller and more elusive. Look for them by examining secluded corners, under debris or objects, and near possible food sources like ant trails.
Adult Spitting spider adults may be found by searching on walls and ceilings in dimly lit areas, as they tend to climb. Using a flashlight may also help spot them due to the reflective nature of their eyes.
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Harmful Effects of Spitting spider
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Toxic to Animals
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Bite Humans
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Toxic to Animals

Spitting spider can introduce a mild toxin via a sting, predominantly in its adult stage, affecting a range of lifeforms. While humans and companion animals like dogs and cats might experience discomfort or localized reactions, smaller creatures such as rodents and certain insects may endure more severe consequences due to their smaller body masses. The toxin serves as a defense mechanism and may result in varying reactions based on the size and species of the animal exposed.

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Bite Humans

Spitting spider's tendency to bite humans is not characteristic of the species. They predominantly use their fangs for subduing prey, and interactions with humans often result in retreat rather than aggression. If a bite occurs, it's usually in defense and might lead to mild, localized symptoms, as their venom is not potent to humans.

More Effects of Spitting spider

More Insects that are Similar to Spitting spider
Brown spitting spider
Brown spitting spider

With a remarkable hunting technique, brown spitting spider is known for its ability to spit a sticky, venom-laden substance over a distance. This fluid can entangle and immobilize its prey almost instantaneously. It primarily feasts on other arthropods, employing its unique tactic as a nocturnal predator. The coloration of brown spitting spider varies in shades that provide camouflage within its habitat, aiding in stealth as it approaches its unsuspecting targets.

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Long-legged spitting spider
Long-legged spitting spider

Within dark recesses, long-legged spitting spider thrives, remarkable for its method of capturing prey; this arachnid employs a unique spraying technique, ejecting a sticky substance from its fangs that immobilizes its victims swiftly. Not only a voracious predator, but it is also an architectural artisan, crafting elaborate silken domiciles that serve as both refuge and a hunting ground. During its juvenile phase, long-legged spitting spider presents a paler appearance, molting multiple times before maturing into its distinct adult form with an elongated build and patterned body, reflecting an evolutionary mastery of deceit and predation.

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Chilean tiger spider
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Chilean tiger spider possesses a unique method of subduing prey, expelling a sticky fluid from its fangs that immobilizes targets upon contact. This unusual mechanism is coupled with its hunting strategy, which involves meticulous stalking rather than web entrapment. Juveniles and adults alike exhibit this distinctive behavior, making chilean tiger spider a specialist hunter within its habitat.

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