Species Insects & ArthropodsDark Fishing Spider

Dark Fishing Spider

Dolomedes tenebrosus

CommonInsect & Arthropod
Illustration of Dark Fishing Spider (Dolomedes tenebrosus)

The Dark Fishing Spider is one of North America's largest spiders, with females reaching nearly 3 inches leg-span and bearing a distinctive brown-and-gray mottled pattern. Unlike its relatives, it is often found far from water, resting on tree bark and in buildings. It can run across the water surface and dive briefly to escape predators. Females carry their egg sac in their chelicerae until spiderlings emerge.

Habitat
Forests, bark of trees, buildings, and occasionally near water
Diet
Adults: large insects, small frogs, and occasionally small fish
How common
Common

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