Evarcha jucunda
I discovered this male Evarcha jucunda as a tan-colored juvenile, and initially wasn't certain of its identification due to its immature state. Despite some distinctive markings on its cephalothorax, the lack of fully developed adult characteristics made species confirmation challenging at first.
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What immediately struck me about this small jumping spider was its remarkably calm and curious nature. Unlike many spiders that flee when handled, this individual showed no fear of my presence and moved with deliberate, unhurried movements. During outdoor observations, it never sought hiding places, suggesting either an unusual level of trust or perhaps typical behavioral traits for Evarcha jucunda.
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The most dramatic transformation occurred three weeks after I found it. The spider constructed a molting web and remained inside for approximately a week. When it finally emerged, the change was striking - the tan coloration had shifted to black, its legs had grown longer, and its pedipalps had thickened considerably, confirming it was indeed a male.
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Post-molt behavior revealed interesting changes in temperament. While maintaining its calm disposition, the spider became less curious and more sedentary, appearing quite content within its enclosure. It established clear territorial preferences, consistently returning each night to the same cave-like structure where it sleeps. Despite measuring only 4mm excluding legs, it successfully hunts fruit flies, demonstrating the impressive predatory abilities that make jumping spiders such effective hunters regardless of their diminutive size.

E. jucunda - Male - Adult


E. jucunda - Male - Juvenile


E. jucunda - Male - Adult