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Science & Nature • Arachnid

Dolomedes tenebrosus

Dolomedes tenebrosus, commonly called the dark fishing spider, is a North American species of spider in the genus Dolomedes.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 27, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Dolomedes tenebrosus, commonly called the dark fishing spider, is a North American species of spider in the genus Dolomedes. It is found in the United States and Canada and is more often associated with wooded habitats and human structures than with open water. The species was described by Hentz in 1844.

Taxonomy

Dolomedes tenebrosus is a spider species in the family Pisauridae, order Araneae. It was described by Nicholas Marcellus Hentz in 1844.

Description

Sources describe the species as a large, brownish-gray spider with darker markings and banded legs. Females are larger than males.

Distribution and habitat

The species occurs in Canada and the United States, especially in the eastern part of North America. It is frequently found in wooded areas, tree cavities, under bark, and sometimes in houses or other human-made structures.

Natural history

Although it belongs to the fishing spider genus, Dolomedes tenebrosus is often found away from water and is known for living in forested settings. It is generally shy and active at night.

Key facts

  • A species of fishing spider in the genus Dolomedes.
  • Native to North America, with records in Canada and the United States.
  • More closely associated with wooded habitats than with open water.
  • Females are larger than males.
  • Commonly called the dark fishing spider.
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Canadian context

The species occurs in Canada and is part of the native North American spider fauna, making it relevant to Canadian biodiversity and wildlife records.

Frequently asked questions

What is Dolomedes tenebrosus?
It is a species of spider commonly known as the dark fishing spider, native to Canada and the United States.
Why is it called a fishing spider?
It belongs to the genus Dolomedes, whose members are called fishing spiders because many are associated with water and may catch aquatic prey.
Where does Dolomedes tenebrosus live?
It is often found in wooded habitats, on trees, under bark, and sometimes in human structures, rather than primarily at water edges.
Is Dolomedes tenebrosus found in Canada?
Yes. Reported distribution includes Canada and the United States.
Who described the species?
The species was described by Hentz in 1844.

References

  1. GBIF — https://www.gbif.org/species/2150903
    Supports: Taxonomy, scientific name, and distribution in Canada and the United States
  2. Integrated Taxonomic Information System — https://www.itis.gov/servlet/SingleRpt/SingleRpt?search_topic=TSN&search_value=878552
    Supports: Authority and taxonomic record for Dolomedes tenebrosus
  3. World Spider Catalog — https://wsc.nmbe.ch/spec-data/33974/Dolomedes_tenebrosus
    Supports: Accepted species name, authority, and distribution
  4. Penn State Extension — https://extension.psu.edu/fishing-spider/
    Supports: Common name, habitat, size, behaviour, and range
  5. University of Maine Cooperative Extension — https://extension.umaine.edu/home-and-garden-ipm/fact-sheets/common-name-listing/fishing-spiders/
    Supports: Common name, habitat, and general behaviour