The Regal Jumping Spider: A Guide to Its Dietary Needs

1. Mealworms:
Mealworms are a staple feeder for many spider species, including regal jumping spiders. These larvae of darkling beetles are rich in protein and fats, providing essential nutrients for spider growth and development. When offering mealworms to your regal jumping spider, ensure they are appropriately sized to prevent under or over eating. It's also essential to gut-load mealworms with nutritious foods like fruits and vegetables before feeding them to your spider, ensuring a well-rounded diet.

2. Fruit Flies:
Fruit flies are another excellent feeder for regal jumping spiders, mostly for juveniles and smaller individuals. These tiny insects are easy for spiders to catch and consume, providing a source of protein and moisture. Fruit flies can be cultured at home using commercially available kits, making them a convenient and cost-effective feeder option.

3. Wax Worms:
Wax worms are a high-fat feeder that can be offered occasionally to regal jumping spiders as a treat. While they should not constitute the primary diet due to their high-fat content, wax worms can provide a source of energy and variety in the spider's diet. Moderation is key when feeding wax worms to prevent obesity and nutritional imbalances.

4. Crickets:
Crickets are a classic feeder insect commonly offered to a variety of spider species, including regal jumping spiders. They are rich in protein and can stimulate natural hunting behaviors in spiders. When feeding crickets to your spider, choose appropriately sized ones to match the spider's body size. Gut-loading crickets with nutritious foods like leafy greens and grains before offering them to your spider enhances their nutritional value.

Other Feeder Options:
In addition to the aforementioned feeders, regal jumping spiders can benefit from a diverse diet that includes small insects like ants, aphids, and springtails. These insects provide additional nutrients and dietary variety, contributing to the spider's overall health and vitality.

Feeding Tips:

• Offer feeders in moderation to prevent overfeeding and obesity.
• Dust feeders with calcium and vitamin supplements to ensure nutritional balance.
• Monitor your spider's feeding response and adjust feeding frequency as needed based on its activity level and growth stage.
• Provide a shallow water dish for hydration, especially during molting periods.
• If a spider is in starved state, offer it water mixed with honey on a qtip.

By understanding and implementing appropriate feeding habits, you can ensure the health and well-being of your regal jumping spider, allowing it to thrive in captivity.