Six-spotted Fishing Spider – 6/2/13

Observer: Paul Lauenstein

Observation Date: 6/2/13

Observation Time: 5:50 p.m.

Observation Place: Gavins Pond Dam

Common Name: Six-spotted Fishing Spider

Scientific Name: Dolomedes triton

Comments: Fishing Spiders get their name from their hunting behavior and occasional food source. They are adept at ambushing insects and other food items on land, but they are also able to submerge their bodies just under the surface of calm water and hunt for small fish and tadpoles. The bristly hairs on their body trap air bubbles that they use to breathe while underwater and waiting for something to swim by. They have been known to stay submerged for more than 30 minutes at a time when hunting in water.

More Information: iNaturalist