Arachnid · GBIF taxon 2171178
California Flattened Jumping Spider
Platycryptus californicusAlso known as California Flattened Jumper, Flattened Jumping Spider
California flattened jumping spiders are agile daylight hunters recognized by their dorsoventrally flattened bodies and mottled gray-brown patterning that blends seamlessly into tree bark. Instead of weaving capture webs, these curious arachnids stalk prey with exceptional eyesight before pouncing using hydraulic leg pressure. They secure a fine silk safety anchor line before every leap to prevent falls while navigating vertical surfaces.
DiurnalHunterFlattened Body
—observations
—countries
—peak records
Not EvaluatedConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXNot Evaluated — not placed on the risk ladderRed List categories, explained →
Diet & prey
- Flies
- Moths
- Leafhoppers
Predators
- Lizards
- Birds
- Spider wasps
ThreatsPesticide application, severe habitat loss, clear-cutting
HabitatsOak woodlands, pine forests, wooden fences, exterior building walls
Life span1–2 years
Size / weightNot available
Classification
- FamilySalticidae
- SpeciesPlatycryptus californicus
Range data is not available yet.
Interaction riskLow
- Low
- Moderate
- High
- Very high
- Why interaction risk is low
- Safe to observe at a normal distance.
Responsible observation
- Observation: Move slowly when approaching, as their large central eyes easily detect fast motion.
- Photography: Use macro settings and natural lighting while letting the spider move freely across wood.
- Handling: Allow the spider to walk voluntarily onto a finger rather than trapping or pinching it.
Close Relative (c) Kevincollins123, some rights reserved (CC BY-SA) · cc-by-sa
Family Member (c) Katja Schulz, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Katja Schulz · cc-by
Family Member (c) Douglas Goldman, some rights reserved (CC BY-SA), uploaded by Douglas Goldman · cc-by-sa
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