Heavy jumping spider (Hyllus diardi)
Photo: Doreen / CC BY 4.0 · via Wikimedia Commons

Arachnid · Jumping spider

Heavy jumping spider care guide

Hyllus diardi

Intermediate

The heavy jumping spider is a intermediate-level jumping spider from SE Asia. Adults reach Body 1.5–2 cm and live 1–2 years in captivity. One of the largest jumping spiders; it needs warmth, light misting and plenty of climbing space.

  • Enclosure 20 × 20 × 30 cm
  • Temp 24–28°C
  • Humidity 60–75%

How much does a heavy jumping spider cost in Canada?

Animal$60–150Typical captive-bred price
Bioactive enclosure$120–240Enclosure $30–60 · equipment $60–150 · bioactive supplies ≈ $30
Yearly upkeep$30–60Food, supplements, bulbs, power, vet fund
First year total$210–450All prices CAD, estimates

Heavy jumping spider quick facts

Skill level
Intermediate
Adult size
Body 1.5–2 cm
Lifespan
1–2 years
Activity
Diurnal
Native range
SE Asia
Minimum enclosure
20 × 20 × 30 cm (8 × 8 × 12 in, ≈ 3 US gal)
Housing
Best kept alone.
Temperature
24–28°C
Humidity
60–75%
UVB
Recommended
Diet
Insectivore – fruit flies, house flies, small crickets
Bioactive style
Arboreal insect

Heavy jumping spider enclosure & bioactive setup

Give one adult at least 20 × 20 × 30 cm (8 × 8 × 12 inches). Best kept alone. This species suits a arboreal insect bioactive build.

  1. Leaf litter2 cm
  2. Premium Coconut Fiber3 cm

A thin, moisture-holding floor layer keeps humidity up. Leave at least twice the insect’s length of clear space below perches for moulting.

Temperature: 24–28°C. Humidity: 60–75%. UVB: Recommended.

What does a heavy jumping spider eat?

Insectivore – fruit flies, house flies, small crickets. Adults: 1–2 flies or small crickets every 2–4 days; slings eat fruit flies every 1–2 days.

Handling, temperament & health

Curious and often tolerates gentle hand-walking, but it can jump suddenly; handle low over a surface.

Health watch: Dehydration and failed molts are the main risks; mist lightly every 1–2 days and never disturb a molting sac.

Cleaning & maintenance schedule

Daily

  • Mist lightly (species dependent) and check food plants are fresh.

Weekly

  • Replace food plants; remove frass and old leaves.

Monthly

  • Wipe mesh and check for mites.

Yearly

  • Replace the floor layer between generations.

Recommended for a heavy jumping spider bioactive

Quantities are for one minimum-size enclosure (20 × 20 × 30 cm).

Heavy jumping spider FAQ

Is the heavy jumping spider good for beginners?

The heavy jumping spider is best for keepers with some experience (intermediate). Curious and often tolerates gentle hand-walking, but it can jump suddenly; handle low over a surface.

What size enclosure does a heavy jumping spider need?

At least 20 × 20 × 30 cm (about 8 × 8 × 12 inches, roughly 3 US gallons) for one adult. Best kept alone.

How much does a heavy jumping spider cost in Canada?

Typically $60–150 CAD to buy, about $120–240 CAD for a complete bioactive enclosure, and $30–60 CAD a year to keep.

What temperature and humidity does a heavy jumping spider need?

Temperature: 24–28°C. Humidity: 60–75%.

What does a heavy jumping spider eat?

Insectivore – fruit flies, house flies, small crickets. Adults: 1–2 flies or small crickets every 2–4 days; slings eat fruit flies every 1–2 days.

Similar species

Browse all 1,000 species →

This care sheet is general guidance from One Bioactive, not veterinary advice. Needs vary with age, locality and individual animals – confirm with your breeder and an exotics vet. Prices are typical Canadian ranges in CAD and change over time.