By Elisela Rojas & Team redlobito.com

As expert veterinarians specializing in arachnids, we understand the intricacies involved in the care and feeding of spiders. Spiders, while often misunderstood, are fascinating creatures that require specific care to thrive in captivity. In this detailed guide, we will provide you with all the necessary information to ensure your spider’s health and well-being.

Understanding Spider Biology

Anatomy and Physiology

Spiders are arachnids with a body divided into two main parts: the cephalothorax and the abdomen. The cephalothorax houses the brain, eyes, mouthparts, and legs, while the abdomen contains the digestive, reproductive, and respiratory organs. Understanding this basic anatomy is crucial for identifying health issues and administering proper care.

Life Cycle

Spiders go through several stages in their life cycle: egg, spiderling, juvenile, and adult. Each stage has distinct care requirements, particularly concerning diet and habitat. Awareness of these stages will help you provide optimal care throughout your spider’s life.

Creating the Ideal Habitat

Enclosure Requirements

A spider’s enclosure should mimic its natural habitat as closely as possible. This includes appropriate temperature, humidity, and space. Here are the key considerations:

• Size: The enclosure should be at least three times the spider’s leg span in length and width, and twice the leg span in height.
• Ventilation: Ensure adequate ventilation to prevent mold growth and maintain air quality.
• Substrate: Use a substrate that retains moisture well, such as coconut fiber or peat moss, to maintain humidity.
• Hiding Spots: Provide hiding spots using cork bark, hollow logs, or artificial caves to reduce stress.

Temperature and Humidity

Most spiders thrive in temperatures ranging from 75-85°F (24-29°C) and humidity levels between 70-80%. Use a thermometer and hygrometer to monitor these conditions regularly. Adjustments can be made using heat mats and misting systems.

Lighting

Spiders do not require special lighting, but a natural light cycle can help regulate their biological rhythms. Avoid direct sunlight as it can overheat the enclosure.

Feeding Your Spider

Diet in the Wild

In their natural habitats, spiders are carnivorous and primarily feed on insects. Their diet can include crickets, flies, beetles, and even other spiders. Mimicking this diet in captivity is crucial for their health.

Feeding in Captivity

• Insects: Offer a variety of live insects such as crickets, mealworms, and roaches. Ensure the prey is no larger than the spider’s abdomen.
• Frequency: Juvenile spiders should be fed every 2-3 days, while adults can be fed once a week. Monitor the spider’s abdomen size to avoid overfeeding.
• Water: Provide a shallow water dish to ensure hydration. Mist the enclosure lightly to maintain humidity and allow the spider to drink droplets.

Supplementation

Dust prey with calcium and vitamin supplements occasionally to ensure nutritional balance, especially for growing juveniles and breeding females.

Health and Wellness

Common Health Issues

• Dehydration: Signs include a shrunken abdomen and lethargy. Increase humidity and ensure water availability.
• Mites and Parasites: Regularly clean the enclosure and remove uneaten prey to prevent infestations.
• Injuries: Handle your spider with care to prevent falls and injuries. Provide a soft substrate to cushion falls.

Signs of a Healthy Spider

A healthy spider will have a rounded abdomen, be active during feeding times, and exhibit normal web-building behavior. Regular observation is key to detecting any changes in behavior or appearance.

Handling and Interaction

Minimizing Stress

Spiders are generally solitary and can become stressed with excessive handling. Limit interactions to necessary enclosure maintenance and feeding. Use soft, gentle movements to avoid startling the spider.

Safe Handling Techniques

If handling is required, use a soft brush to coax the spider into a small container. Never handle a spider directly unless you are experienced and confident in your ability to do so safely.

Breeding Spiders

Selecting Breeding Pairs

Choose healthy, mature individuals with no visible deformities or health issues. Introduce the male to the female’s enclosure with caution, as spiders can be aggressive towards each other.

Mating Process

The mating process involves the male performing a courtship ritual to avoid being mistaken for prey. Monitor the interaction closely and be prepared to separate the spiders if necessary.

Egg Sac Care

After mating, the female will produce an egg sac. Provide a quiet, undisturbed area for the female to tend to the sac. Once spiderlings hatch, separate them to prevent cannibalism.

Conclusion

Proper care and feeding of spiders require attention to detail and a thorough understanding of their biology and natural habits. By following the guidelines outlined in this article, you can ensure your spider lives a healthy, enriched life in captivity.