🕷️ Crab & Sand Spiders Care Guide
Introduction
The Crab Spiders (Thomisidae) and Sand Spiders (Sicariidae: Sicarius spp.) represent two of the most remarkable ambush hunters in the arachnid world. Known for their sideways movement, camouflage abilities, and patience as predators, these spiders rely on stealth rather than webs to capture their prey.
Crab and Sand Spiders make fascinating, low-maintenance display specimens for enthusiasts who enjoy observing natural hunting behaviors rather than web-building. Though visually distinct, both groups share similar husbandry principles — emphasizing space, camouflage, and stability.
🌎 Natural Habitat
Crab Spiders are found across gardens, grasslands, and flower meadows, where they sit perfectly still, waiting to ambush pollinators. Their flattened bodies and crab-like stance allow them to blend into their environment effortlessly.
Sand Spiders, on the other hand, inhabit arid deserts and scrublands of Africa and South America. Their sandy coloration and ability to bury themselves beneath loose substrate make them almost invisible to prey — and predators.
Both types prefer warm, dry, and open environments that mimic their natural ecosystems.
🏡 Enclosure Setup
Crab and Sand Spiders do not build webs to catch prey, relying instead on camouflage and stillness. Enclosures should reflect this behavior by offering horizontal space, natural texture, and substrate depth.
Recommended enclosure size:
- Juveniles: 10 × 10 × 10 cm (4 × 4 × 4 in)
- Adults: 20 × 20 × 15 cm (8 × 8 × 6 in) minimum
Setup essentials:
- Substrate: Fine, dry sand or a sand-soil mix (5–7 cm / 2–3 in deep).
- Decor: Rocks, bark, or driftwood for visual texture and cover.
- Plants: Dried grasses or artificial succulents for a natural appearance.
- Lighting: Natural ambient light; avoid direct heat lamps.
- Ventilation: Good airflow to prevent moisture buildup.
For Sand Spiders specifically, ensure the substrate is loose enough for partial burrowing. Crab Spiders benefit from open spaces where they can perch or rest on surfaces.
🌡️ Temperature & Humidity
Both groups thrive in warm, low-humidity conditions.
- Temperature: 24–28 °C (75–82 °F)
- Humidity: 40–55 %
- Misting: Light mist every 10–14 days; otherwise keep enclosure dry.
Sand Spiders are extremely tolerant of dryness — humidity above 60% should be avoided, as it may cause fungal issues.
🍴 Feeding
Crab and Sand Spiders are sit-and-wait predators, meaning they feed infrequently but enthusiastically when prey comes within reach.
Offer appropriately sized live food such as:
- Small crickets
- Roaches
- Occasional mealworms
Feed once per week, removing uneaten prey after 24 hours. These spiders rely heavily on ambush tactics, and excessive feeding may stress them or disrupt their natural behavior.
Watching one strike is a treat — a lightning-fast pounce followed by precise, efficient venom delivery.
⚖️ Growth & Molting
These spiders grow steadily, with juveniles molting more often than adults. Before molting, they will typically:
- Stop eating
- Seek shelter or bury themselves
- Appear dull or shrunken
Avoid feeding during this period and ensure the substrate remains stable. Allow several days after molting before offering food again.
⚠️ Temperament & Handling
Crab and Sand Spiders are defensive rather than aggressive. They rely on camouflage rather than confrontation and will often freeze when disturbed.
Handling is not recommended, especially for Sicarius species (Sand Spiders), which possess medically significant venom. Always use tools or soft brushes for enclosure maintenance and observe these spiders from a safe distance.
They are best enjoyed as display specimens showcasing natural hunting behaviors.
🧬 Lifespan & Size
- Body length: 8–20 mm (0.3–0.8 in) depending on species
- Leg span: Up to 50 mm (2 in)
- Lifespan: 1–3 years on average
Females typically outlive males and may spend months in one location, blending seamlessly with their environment.
🌿 Breeding Notes
Breeding Crab or Sand Spiders can be challenging. Females produce silken egg sacs, which they guard carefully until spiderlings hatch.
In captivity, mating should be monitored closely to prevent cannibalism. Stable warmth and minimal disturbance are key for successful egg development.
✅ Key Care Summary
| Parameter | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Thomisidae (Crab Spiders), Sicarius spp. (Sand Spiders) |
| Common Name | Crab Spider / Sand Spider |
| Origin | Worldwide (Tropical, Desert, and Temperate Regions) |
| Category | Terrestrial Ambush Hunter |
| Adult Size | 8–20 mm body, up to 50 mm leg span |
| Temperature | 24–28 °C (75–82 °F) |
| Humidity | 40–55 % |
| Temperament | Shy / Defensive |
| Difficulty | Intermediate to Advanced |
| Handling | Not recommended |
🔗 Related Guides
- True Spider Care Guide
- Huntsman Spider Care Guide
- Funnel-Web Spider Care Guide
- Jumping Spider Care Guide
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