Scytodes thoracica

Scytodes thoracica, commonly found in the eastern United States, is a species of spitting spider belonging to the family Scytodidae. These spiders are unique for their hunting method, which involves spitting a venomous, mucilaginous silk to ensnare prey. This ability stems from oral silk glands connected to their venom glands.1

Unlike most spiders, spitting spiders do not build webs, though they possess abdominal spinnerets for silk production. They typically have six pearly-white eyes, a deviation from the usual eight found in other spiders. Scytodes thoracica is yellow with black spots and measures between 3.5–5.5 mm in body length. These spiders are most prevalent in tropical, shady areas and primarily prey on insects and other spiders.1