Fishing Spider vs Wolf Spider: Battle of the Arachnids

Fishing spiders and wolf spiders are two common types of spiders that are often mistaken for one another. They share similarities in size, shape, and coloration, which can make it difficult for the casual observer to tell them apart. However, these spiders have distinct behaviors and habitats that can help differentiate them.

Fishing spiders, specifically from the genus Dolomedes, are called so because they mostly reside near water and have even been reported to catch small fish and aquatic insects from the water as they walk on the surface. On the other hand, wolf spiders are generally ground dwellers and known for their excellent hunting skills.

Both types of spiders are not poisonous, but their bites may cause reactions in certain individuals. These spiders’ presence in buildings is usually accidental, especially common during the fall season, according to Horticulture and Home Pest News.

Fishing Spider and Wolf Spider: An Overview

Fishing Spider (Dolomedes)

Fishing spiders belong to the genus Dolomedes and are known for their unique hunting style. They typically live near water and can catch small fish and aquatic insects by walking on the water surface¹. Some recognizable characteristics of fishing spiders include:

• Large size, similar to wolf spiders
• Mottled black and brown coloration
• Dark W-shaped patterns on the abdomen²

Fishing spiders can often be misidentified as wolf spiders due to their similar appearance. However, their habitat and hunting style sets them apart.

Wolf Spider (Lycosidae)

Wolf spiders belong to the family Lycosidae and are common in numerous terrestrial habitats³. They can typically be found near shrubs or tall grass and are known for their active hunting style. Some key features of wolf spiders are:

• Ground-dwelling and fast-moving
• Agile hunters that pounce on prey³
• Carry their young on their backs

Here’s a brief comparison of the two spider types:

In summary, fishing spiders and wolf spiders both are large and can be mistaken for each other. However, the key differences between them lie in their habitats, hunting styles, and some unique characteristics.

Habitats and Locations

Fishing Spider Habitats

Fishing spiders, belonging to the genus Dolomedes, primarily reside near water sources such as:

• Streams
• Lakes

These spiders can walk on the water’s surface and catch small fish and aquatic insects. Locations where fishing spiders can be found range from Iowa to Canada. They prefer habitats with plenty of:

• Vegetation
• Insect supply

Wolf Spider Habitats

Wolf spiders, on the other hand, thrive in a variety of terrestrial habitats. They are commonly found near:

• Shrubs
• Tall grass

Wolf spiders often dwell in burrows and actively hunt for prey on the ground or plants. They are also found in locations like Iowa and Canada.

Overall, there are distinctions in the types of habitats and locations for fishing spiders and wolf spiders.

Physical Characteristics

Size and Colors

Fishing spiders and wolf spiders have some similarities when it comes to size and colors, but also a few differences.

• Fishing spiders: These spiders can be quite large, with the female dark fishing spider’s body reaching about 1″ long. They usually have brownish or blackish coloration and mottled patterns.
• Wolf spiders: Wolf spiders also come in different sizes and can be similar to fishing spiders in appearance. They also have brown or dark coloration and various banded patterns.

Eyes and Vision

Both spiders have remarkable eyes and vision:

• Fishing spiders: They have a total of 8 eyes arranged in two rows. Their vision is adapted for nocturnal hunting and detecting prey on the water surface.
• Wolf spiders: Also have 8 eyes, but with a unique arrangement of 4 small eyes in the lower row, 2 large eyes in the middle row, and 2 medium-sized eyes on top. This configuration allows them excellent vision for hunting during the day and night.

Legs and Speed

The legs and speed of these spiders need to be considered:

• Fishing spiders: With their long legs, they can walk on the water surface and are capable of catching small fish and aquatic insects. Their legs’ length and strength help to hold their prey and run fast when needed.
• Wolf spiders: They also have long legs, but with more robust and stout features. Their legs enable them to run quickly on the ground while pursuing prey.

Here’s a comparison table of the physical characteristics of fishing spiders and wolf spiders:

Prey and Hunting Techniques

Fishing Spider’s Prey and Techniques

Fishing spiders, belonging to the genus Dolomedes, are mostly found near water¹. They are known to catch small fish and aquatic insects from the water by walking on the surface¹.

• Prey includes:
  • Fish
  • Aquatic insects
  • Tadpoles

Fishing spiders use their ability to walk on water to approach and catch their prey¹. Their hunting technique involves sensing vibrations on the surface of the water¹.

Wolf Spider’s Prey and Techniques

Wolf spiders are outdoor species that actively hunt and pursue prey during the day³. They have good vision and do not usually build webs for capturing prey³.

• Prey includes:
  • Insects
  • Other spiders

Wolf spiders use their speed and agility to run down and catch their prey³.

Venom and Bites

Fishing Spider Venom and Bites

Fishing spiders, found primarily near water, have the ability to catch small fish and aquatic insects. These spiders belong to the genus Dolomedes and are not known to be particularly aggressive or venomous to humans. In most cases, bites from fishing spiders are harmless and cause little more than mild discomfort¹.

• Bites from fishing spiders are generally not harmful to humans
• Fishing spider venom rarely causes significant pain or medical problems

Wolf Spider Venom and Bites

Wolf spiders, on the other hand, can deliver a venomous bite. Though not life-threatening to humans, their venom can cause some pain, swelling, and itchiness³. Bites from wolf spiders usually result in symptoms lasting for a few days, but medical attention is generally not necessary.

• Wolf spider bites may cause pain and swelling
• Symptoms usually subside within a few days

Reproduction and Spiderlings

Fishing Spider Eggs and Spiderlings

Fishing spiders, like the Dolomedes tenebrosus, usually lay their eggs near the water or on human-made structures. They belong to the nursery web spiders group, which build unique “nursery” webs to guard their egg sacs and spiderlings¹. Some characteristics of fishing spider reproduction include:

• Egg sacs are typically black
• Nursery webs provide extra protection for the eggs and spiderlings
• Female spiders are known to stand guard over the nursery web
• Male spiders do not participate in guarding the eggs

Wolf Spider Eggs and Spiderlings

Wolf spiders, on the other hand, carry their egg sacs with them³. The mothers are known for their caring behavior, as they carry their spiderlings on their back until they are partially grown. Some features of wolf spider reproduction are:

• Mothers carry egg sacs with them on the go
• Spiderlings ride on the mother’s back for added protection
• No need for a separate nursery web structure

Here is a comparison table between both types of spiders:

Fishing Spiders and Wolf Spiders as Pets

Fishing spiders and wolf spiders are both fascinating creatures that can be kept as pets. Some people are attracted to their unique appearance and hunting behaviors.

Fishing spiders are large spiders often found near water. They can walk on water and catch small fish or aquatic insects (source). They tend to have longer legs compared to wolf spiders and feature brown-black bands on their legs (source).

Wolf spiders are terrestrial hunters with great eyesight (source). They are known for carrying their young on their backs. Wolf spiders are usually smaller than fishing spiders, but they are still impressive in size.

Here is a comparison table highlighting some key differences between fishing spiders and wolf spiders:

When keeping these spiders as pets, it’s crucial to accommodate their unique habits and requirements. Some key points to remember:

• Provide appropriate environments to replicate their natural habitats.
• Ensure a constant supply of preferred food items, such as live insects.
• Fishing spiders need constant access to water for hunting, while wolf spiders require water for drinking.

Both fishing and wolf spiders can make fascinating pets for those interested in observing their hunting and nurturing behaviors. However, it’s important to make sure that these captivating creatures are well taken care of, considering their distinct needs and preferences.