Cosmophasis thalassina is a species within the genus Cosmophasis, which is part of the Salticidae family, commonly known as Sea-green Northern Jumper or jumping spiders. The Cosmophasis genus is notable for its brightly colored members, many of which exhibit iridescent coloration and are found in diverse habitats ranging from forested areas to gardens. Cosmophasis thalassina, like other Cosmophasis species, is likely to be a small, visually striking jumping spider with iridescent coloration. These spiders are known for their agility and excellent vision, which they use for hunting and navigating their environment.
Sea-green Northern Jumper
Cosmophasis thalassina
Classification
KINGDOM
:
Animalia
PHYLUM
:
Arthropoda
CLASS
:
Arachnida
ORDER
:
Araneae
FAMILY
:
Salticidae
GENUS
:
Cosmophasis
SPECIES
:
Cosmophasis thalassina
Other Information
Venomous?
As with all jumping spiders, Cosmophasis thalassina is venomous, using its venom to immobilize prey. However, the venom is not dangerous to humans, typically causing no more than minor symptoms such as localized pain or swelling in the rare event of a bite.
A Danger to Humans?
Cosmophasis thalassina poses minimal danger to humans. These spiders are not aggressive towards humans and tend to avoid encounters. Bites are rare and not considered medically significant.
Population Status
Specific data on the population size of Cosmophasis thalassina is not widely documented. However, Cosmophasis spiders can adapt to various environments, suggesting potentially stable populations where conditions are favorable.
Sea-green Northern Jumper (Cosmophasis thalassina), Photo by David Lowenthal
Life Span:
The life span of jumping spiders, including those in the Cosmophasis genus, can vary but generally spans about 1-2 years, encompassing several stages from egg to adult.
Weight and Length:
Jumping spiders, including Cosmophasis thalassina, are generally small, with body lengths ranging from a few millimeters to about a centimeter or slightly more for larger species.
Distribution:
While specific distribution details for Cosmophasis thalassina might not be readily available, the Cosmophasis genus is found in Asia and Australia. These spiders often inhabit forested areas, gardens, and sometimes human-inhabited areas.
Sea-green Northern Jumper (Cosmophasis thalassina), Photo by David Lowenthal
Habits and Lifestyle:
Cosmophasis thalassina, like other jumping spiders, is diurnal and relies on its vision to hunt during the day. They do not spin webs to catch prey but rather use their jumping ability to ambush or chase down insects.
Diet and Nutrition:
Their diet consists primarily of insects and possibly nectar, a dietary habit observed in some jumping spider species. They are active hunters, stalking prey before making a quick leap to capture it.
Mating Habits:
Mating behavior in jumping spiders involves complex visual displays, where males perform dances and exhibit their colorful patterns to attract females. The success of these courtship rituals is crucial for mating.