The Okinawan fishing spider (Dolomedes orion) is one of the most unique spiders we have on the Island of Okinawa.
My fishing hole
Most fishing spiders are ambush predators. They have the ability to catch prey on the land, on the surface of the water and even underwater. Fishing spiders use vibrations to attract insects like water striders. The spiders vibrations simulate a helpless insect floating on the surface of the water.
Dolomedes sp, Iriomote Island
I have seen amazing photographs of these fishing spiders eating frogs. I personally have observed Dolomedes orion eating insects only.
Dolomedes orion hunting
The beautiful color contrast allows them to blend in with their surrounding environment to avoid being seen.
Dolomedes orion feeding
It is thought that the white reflective leg sections are used to lure in prey when hunting during the daytime, but do they serve a purpose at night?
MYN Technique
Look close, the female fishing spider handles her egg sack with extreme care.
Female protecting her egg sack
Meet Spi-Zilla, This is an average healthy specimen found in the Yanbaru forest.
Huge spiders on Okinawa
I used my iPhone to compare the size of this huge spider, I kept my distance for sure.
Iphone comparison, Thanks R Shobe
Please be respectful to the wildlife. If they show any signs of stress or aggression give them their space and move on. Learn more about the Huntsmen spiders of Okinawa
My Mission: To Document and Preserve the Wildlife of the Ryukyu Islands
This site is also designed to help people identify the beautiful animals of Okinawa, basically to serve as an online nature reference guide. If you would like to make a contribution to support my mission, please click on the donation link paypal.me/maketheswitch4nature
Your donations will help worldwide conservation initiatives as well as bring solutions to the worldwide pollution issues on our beautiful shorelines. Thank you for your support. Shawn M Miller.
