11/01/2023
Me and this mature male Phidippus apacheanus are wishing everyone a great Halloween/Samhain!!! π π»π§‘
The vivid coloration contrasted with the black legs and underside of this species is said to possibly mimic that of mutillid wasps (velvet ants). This species is part of the purpuratus group of jumping spiders, which also consists of Phidippus morpheus, nikites, aureus, tyrannus, ursulus, ardens, texanus, purpuratus and borealis.
This handsome boy is headed off to Mainstream Arachnids to hopefully be paired with her gorgeous apacheanus!π€
Some of his setae have been rubbed off from his head around his eyes, revealing the black coloration. This is from the top of his head rubbing against surfaces in the enclosure and losing the hairs after his mature molt. Due to him being mature, he doesn't have any molts left to regrow the hairs. This is just aesthetic and doesn't affect him in any other way. He still has a great energy level and loves to explore. I just had to take him out for some last photos before his trip to his new home!
Image description: A mature male Phidippus apacheanus poses for the camera in four photos. The bright orange/red coloring on the abdomen and carapace, as well as the stark contrast to the jet black legs and underside, is easily distinguished. In the first photo, the jumping spider is on a plastic container with a blurry tan background. In the other photos, the spider is on the palm of a hand with tattoos.
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