Paraphidippus fartilis
Paraphidippus fartilis
Paraphidippus fartilis is one of the most unique and visually striking jumping spiders available in the hobby. Unlike the more commonly kept Phidippus species, this spider belongs to the closely related genus Paraphidippus, a group known for its elongated body shape, impressive camouflage, and exceptional arboreal adaptations.
With their moss-like coloration, graceful appearance, and active personalities, P. fartilis often feels more like a tiny forest spirit than a typical jumping spider. For keepers seeking a truly distinctive species, few spiders offer the same combination of beauty and rarity.
Quick Facts
Scientific Name
Paraphidippus fartilis
Common Name
Fartilis Jumping Spider
Difficulty Level
Intermediate
Native Range
Found throughout portions of:
Arizona
New Mexico
Texas
Northern Mexico
Often encountered in:
Oak woodlands
Shrublands
Forest edges
Mountain foothills
Unlike many Phidippus species, they spend much of their lives among vegetation and tree branches.
Adult Size
Males
0.4–0.6 inches (10–15 mm)
Females
0.5–0.75 inches (13–19 mm)
While not particularly large, their elongated body shape often makes them appear larger than similarly sized species.
Lifespan
Males
1–2 years
Females
2–3 years
Proper husbandry, hydration, and nutrition can significantly influence longevity.
Why Keep a Fartilis Jumper?
Paraphidippus fartilis is popular among experienced keepers because of its extraordinary appearance.
Keepers love them for:
Unique moss-like coloration
Rare availability
Arboreal behavior
Exceptional camouflage
Elegant body structure
Many enthusiasts consider them one of the most beautiful jumping spiders found in North America.
Appearance
Overall Coloration
Fartilis Jumpers often display stunning natural camouflage.
Common colors include:
Moss green
Olive green
Bronze
Tan
Cream
Rust accents
Their coloration helps them blend seamlessly into bark, lichen, and foliage.
Body Shape
Unlike the stockier appearance of Regals and Bold Jumpers, P. fartilis has:
A longer abdomen
More slender proportions
Longer legs
A graceful silhouette
This gives them a distinctive appearance immediately recognizable to experienced keepers.
Chelicerae
Chelicerae may appear:
Green
Blue
Teal
Metallic turquoise
Depending on lighting conditions.
Housing Requirements
Because P. fartilis is highly arboreal, enclosure design is especially important.
Recommended Enclosure Size
Adults thrive in:
4x4x8 inch enclosures
6x6x8 inch enclosures
Similar vertical habitats
Height should always be prioritized over floor space.
Ventilation
Excellent ventilation is critical.
Cross ventilation helps prevent:
Mold
Stagnant air
Excess moisture buildup
Good airflow contributes significantly to long-term success.
Climbing Opportunities
Provide abundant:
Branches
Twigs
Cork bark
Artificial vines
Elevated hides
This species loves to climb and explore.
Temperature & Humidity
Temperature
Ideal Range:
72–82°F (22–28°C)
Consistent temperatures are preferred.
Humidity
Ideal Range:
55–75%
Moderate humidity combined with strong airflow generally produces the best results.
Because this species often inhabits more vegetated environments, it typically appreciates slightly higher humidity than P. audax.
Feeding
Fartilis Jumpers are active visual predators.
Spiderlings
Recommended feeders:
Melanogaster fruit flies
Hydei fruit flies
Juveniles
Recommended feeders:
Large fruit flies
Small bottle flies
Small roaches
Adults
Recommended feeders:
Bottle flies
House flies
Small roaches
Mealworms (occasionally)
Flying prey often encourages excellent feeding responses.
Hydration
Provide hydration through:
Light misting
Water droplets
Regular moisture opportunities
Hydration is particularly important during molting cycles.
Avoid waterlogged conditions.
Behavior
Arboreal Explorer
This species spends much of its time climbing and utilizing vertical space.
Curious Observer
Like other jumping spiders, P. fartilis frequently watches activity around its enclosure.
Active Hunter
They stalk prey visually before making precise leaps to capture it.
Exceptional Camouflage
Many individuals blend so effectively into their surroundings that they can be difficult to spot even inside their enclosure.
Molting
Molting follows the same general pattern seen in other jumping spiders.
Common signs include:
Reduced appetite
Increased retreat construction
Less activity
More time spent hidden
Never disturb a spider during the molting process.
Handling
Many individuals tolerate gentle interaction well.
If handling is desired:
Move slowly
Allow voluntary interaction
Avoid forcing contact
Respect individual personalities
Because of their excellent camouflage and agility, caution should always be exercised during handling.
Breeding
Captive breeding of Paraphidippus fartilis remains relatively uncommon compared to mainstream hobby species.
Successful breeding requires:
Healthy mature adults
Proper environmental conditions
Careful introductions
Close observation
Increased captive breeding helps reduce pressure on wild populations while improving availability within the hobby.
Common Beginner Questions
"Why is my spider hiding so well?"
Their camouflage is one of their defining traits.
Many individuals blend perfectly into bark, moss, and foliage.
"Why does my spider stay near the top?"
This is normal arboreal behavior.
"Is my spider supposed to be green?"
Many individuals display green, olive, or moss-like coloration, especially females.
Is a Fartilis Jumper Right for You?
A Paraphidippus fartilis may be perfect if you're looking for:
✓ A rare species
✓ Natural moss-like coloration
✓ Arboreal behavior
✓ A unique alternative to Phidippus
✓ One of North America's most beautiful jumping spiders
While beginners can succeed with this species, it is often especially appreciated by keepers looking to expand into more unusual and visually distinctive jumpers.
Tiny Coven Notes
At Tiny Coven Jumpers, Paraphidippus fartilis represents the wild beauty of the forests and woodlands that inspired our love of invertebrates in the first place. Their incredible camouflage, elegant proportions, and arboreal nature make them one of the most captivating species we work with and a true treasure for collectors seeking something extraordinary.
Difficulty: Intermediate
Temperature: 72–82°F
Humidity: 55–75%
Adult Size: Up to 0.75 inches
Special Trait: Moss-Like Camouflage & Arboreal Lifestyle
Tiny Coven Rating: One of the Most Beautiful Native Jumping Spiders
Best For: Keepers who appreciate rare species, natural camouflage, and the quiet elegance of one of North America's most remarkable jumping spiders.