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Views: 0 Author: Site Editor Publish Time: 2025-06-30 Origin: Site
Most spiders, insects, and other critters require an enclosure that is at least two to three times their body length, typically measured diagonally. This guide will help you learn how to properly measure and select the right type, size, and style of enclosure. We will primarily focus on Jumping Spiders (Spoods), Tarantulas, and other species that share similar enclosure needs.
Spiders and most arthropods need an enclosure that's 2-3 times their body length, typically measured diagonally as Diagonal Leg Span (DLS). Use DLS (distance between the tips of opposite legs when stretched out) for sizing the enclosure.
• Arboreal species (tree-dwelling) require tall enclosures, at least 3 times the DLS in height.
• Terrestrial species (ground-dwelling) need enclosures with a base 2 times the DLS.
• Review care sheets for growth and adult size to determine when and how often to upgrade the enclosure.
• Record temperature, humidity ranges, substrate needs (e.g., tropical species may need 5 cm of substrate), and ventilation requirements.
Example: For a 5 cm DLS jumping spider, select an enclosure around 10-15 cm high with climbing structures.
Warning: Avoid using too large an enclosure for juveniles as it may hinder feeding. Gradually upgrade as they grow.
• Terrestrial species: Ensure the base is 2x DLS.
• Arboreal species: Height should be 3x DLS.
Well, now you have a complete understanding of what kind of enclosure jumping spiders need and can pick out a suitable home for your little sweetheart. By the way I've considered for you where you can buy the best jumping spider enclosures directly - check out Hanze Enclosure Manufacturer.
Of course, if you find yourself overwhelmed with a series of questions during the selection process, the ultimate guide below is still there for you.
When purchasing a spider from a breeder, it's important to confirm whether the provided measurements are for DLS (Diagonal Leg Span) or BL (Body Length). These measurements can differ, and using the correct one is essential to determining the right enclosure size. We recommend using DLS, as it represents the spider's total usable space when moving.
For tarantulas, the standard measurement is the outstretched diagonal leg span (DLS). This is the distance from the tip of one leg to the tip of the opposite leg, with the legs fully extended and straight, without any bends in the knees.
True spiders, on the other hand, are typically measured by their Body Length (BL). This is the measurement from the front of the cephalothorax to the tip of the abdomen, excluding the spinnerets and chelicerae, and does not include the length the legs can stretch out.
Measuring a live spider is more challenging than measuring one after a molt. However, you can still measure it accurately by using a ruler while the spider is in a relaxed position. The measurement might be an estimate since the legs may not be fully extended. To improve accuracy, take several photos from different angles with a ruler in the frame for reference. Alternatively, placing the spider on graph paper, photographing it walking across the squares, and counting the squares can also provide a good estimation of size.
Remember that male spiders usually have a smaller DLS or BL than females when they reach adulthood, so adjust your measurements accordingly.
Here's a general guide to the minimum enclosure requirements for different species types. These recommendations can be divided into four main categories:
Description: These species primarily live above ground, often in tree cavities, plants, branches, or foliage, where they benefit from ample airflow.
| Enclosure Aspect | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Length & Width | 2 to 3 x leg span (DLS) |
| Height | At least 4 x leg span (DLS) |
| Amount of Substrate | 1/8 to 1/4 of the enclosure height; some species require none |
| Top Clearance | Most of the enclosure volume |
| Ventilation | As much cross ventilation as possible |
| Style | Tall enclosure, much taller than wide, with climbing decorations and airspace rather than substrate |
Description: These species live on or in the ground, often burrowing near the surface and hiding under rocks, bark, or leaves. Some species also create their own burrows.
| Enclosure Aspect | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Length & Width | 3 to 4 x DLS for Length, 2 to 3 x DLS for Width |
| Height | 3 to 4 x leg span (DLS) |
| Amount of Substrate | 1/2 to 2/3 of the enclosure height |
| Top Clearance | 1 to 2 x leg span (DLS) |
| Ventilation | Cross-ventilation & top ventilation preferred |
| Style | Cubic or rectangular proportions, longer than tall, filled at least halfway with substrate |
Description: These species exhibit both terrestrial and arboreal behaviors, spending time on the ground and above it. A semi-arboreal enclosure is typically a terrestrial setup with additional top clearance and climbing surfaces.
| Enclosure Aspect | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Length & Width | 3 to 4 x DLS for Length, 2 to 3 x DLS for Width |
| Height | 3 to 4 x leg span (DLS) |
| Amount of Substrate | 1/4 to 1/3 of the enclosure height |
| Top Clearance | 2 to 3 x leg span (DLS) |
| Ventilation | Ample cross-ventilation recommended |
| Style | Typically cube or slightly rectangular; top clearance should not exceed length or width |
Description: Fossorial species are adapted for digging and burrowing, spending much of their time underground, often digging tunnels that can extend to the bottom of the enclosure.
| Enclosure Aspect | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Length & Width | 2 to 3 x DLS |
| Height | At least 4 x leg span (DLS) |
| Amount of Substrate | 2/3 to 3/4 of the enclosure height |
| Top Clearance | 1 x leg span (DLS) |
| Ventilation | Top ventilation preferred |
| Style | Tall enclosure, mostly filled with substrate |
Okay, I'm sure everyone reading here is a veteran breeder or a motivated new parent, and once again I've got one thing in mind for you - and that's the jumping spiders and tarantulas further specialties section of the picking guide. Let's just love what they really love:
Description: The most commonly kept pet jumping spiders follow the arboreal enclosure style, with minor adjustments made based on their specific needs.
| Enclosure Aspect | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Length & Width | 4 to 6 times the leg span (DLS) |
| Height | Minimum of 8 to 10 times the leg span (DLS) |
| Amount of Substrate | Generally not required. Small amounts of inorganic substrate may be used for aesthetic purposes or to regulate humidity. |
| Top Clearance | Most of the enclosure volume should be clear. |
| Ventilation | Ensure maximum cross ventilation for optimal airflow. |
| Style | A tall enclosure with plenty of climbing and hiding areas, large enough to allow exploration but small enough to aid in prey capture. Jumping spiders typically build nests or hammocks in elevated areas but can also do so on the sides or bottom of the enclosure. |
Our "arboreal enclosures" are the ideal enclosures for jumping spiders. We offer eight different sizes, and to help you choose the best fit for your spider, we've provided a list of recommended sizes based on the spider's developmental stage (instar stage) in relation to the height of the enclosure.
>> Jumping spider enclosure for sale
| Enclosure Size | Recommended Instar Stage |
|---|---|
| 6 - 8 cm | Instar 2 to 5 |
| 10 cm | Instar 4 to 6 |
| 12 cm | Instar 5 to 7 |
| 14 cm | Instar 8 and up |
| 16 cm | Instar 8 and up |
| 18 cm | Instar 8 and up |
| 20 cm | Instar 8 and up |
Description: Dwarf tarantulas are typically small species that grow to a maximum of 8 cm (3 inches) in DLS as adults. These spiders also follow the same enclosure recommendations. Dwarf tarantulas are one of our preferred species because our enclosures are ideal for spiderlings, juveniles, sub-adults, as well as jumping spiders and dwarf tarantulas. Most of our enclosures are designed to accommodate spiders with a DLS up to 8 cm, meaning they can comfortably house a species with a DLS ratio of 3 to 1, corresponding to a spider that reaches 8 cm in DLS. Even as adults, dwarf tarantulas can thrive in compact, elegant setups.
Finally, I would like to thank every spider breeder for their patience and hard work, and I hope you can make a wonderful home for your spider babies!
It's recommended to use an enclosure with a side door, as this will be beneficial for your spider. Jumping spiders tend to build their sac at the top of the enclosure, and a top lid may disturb them during maintenance. Be sure to include some decorations in the habitat to encourage exploration and stimulation for your spider.
Yes, some jumping spiders are capable of forming bonds with their human companions. These spiders have the ability to see details, sense movements, and even hear sounds. When they enter your home, they usually observe you first to assess whether they are welcome in your space.
Yes, jumping spiders enjoy enrichment. Providing them with a proper diet, ensuring hydration, maintaining their habitat, and offering engaging activities will help keep them healthy and active.
Spiderlings typically need to be fed fruit flies every 1-3 days. For more details, check the section on raising spiderlings (once available). As they reach adulthood, feeding them every three days is generally sufficient. You can adjust this depending on their acceptance of prey—if they refuse, try extending the feeding interval to four days, then five, and so on.
Jumping spiders may wave as part of their territorial behavior or as a defense mechanism.
Jumping spiders are some of the most intelligent invertebrates, demonstrating impressive problem-solving and innovative behaviors in their environments. These fascinating creatures use their remarkable cognitive abilities to outwit prey and find new, effective hunting strategies.
