Marpissoida: Dendryphantinae

North America jumping spiders share characteristics that, as a general rule, distinguish them from their South American relatives. Recent phylogenetic studies suggest one New World clade in the south (Amycoidea) and another northward (Marpissoida). A similar pattern of continental groupings is reflected in Old World salticids. Along with Habronattus spiders, the members of three other North American genera (Phidippus, Pelegrina, and Sassacus) comprise the typical salticids of our area. Seven of North America's sixty Phidippus species occur in Massachusetts. These relatively large, colorful jumping spiders were among the first North American salticids to be described. One species, Phidippus audax (Hentz), may be the most commonly observed jumping spider in the state. The Peckhams' 1909 work on North American salticids includes the first comprehensive treatment of Phidippus; a century later, G. B. Edwards (2004) published a revision of the genus. Both of these works have numerous descriptions and illustrations useful to naturalists and they are the major sources for what follows.

Phidippus jumping spiders are relatively large and "hairy." With the exception of some adult males, the presence of long tufts (setae) directly behind the PME are characteristic. The basal portions of the chelicerae (jaws) are often iridescent green and leg I often has well developed fringes. Markings on the dorsum are variations on the theme of four pairs of spots (I-IV) bordering a dark mid-dorsal stripe. When spot pair II is fused it creates a prominant dorsal mark. Depending on species and age there may also be a lateral band of light scaling encircling all or part of the abdomen and one or two oblique bands on the sides of the abdomen.

Their relatively large size make Phidippus jumpers fairly easy to find. In my experience, however, they are alert to observers in their immediate vicinity and wary of close approach. Typically these spiders seek cover once they become aware of an intruder. The best tactic for the observer may be to remain motionless (and patient) until the jumper emerges from his/her retreat. Males seeking mates or actively courting as well as those stalking or with captured prey may be easier to approach. Unlike our nesting birds that can be found throughout the season Phidippus spiders are typically active as adults for more restricted periods. Knowing the species' life history and habitat associations will increase your chances of finding a given species.
Edwards, 2004; Hill and Edwards, 2013