Iridescent Jumping Spiders

Cosmophasis valerieae

Cosmophasis valerieae is a species of jumping spider belonging to the genus Cosmophasis, which is known for its brightly colored individuals and intricate courtship behaviors. Jumping spiders are characterized by their excellent vision and unique hunting methods, which include pouncing on their prey rather than capturing them in webs.

Cosmophasis valerieae, like other members of its genus, is a small, visually striking spider. These spiders are noted for their metallic and iridescent coloration, which can change under different lighting conditions. This coloration is not only a camouflage mechanism but also plays a significant role in their social and mating behaviors.

Classification

KINGDOM

:

Animalia

PHYLUM

:

Arthropoda

CLASS

:

Arachnida

ORDER

:

Araneae

FAMILY

:

Salticidae

GENUS

:

Cosmophasis

SPECIES

:

Cosmophasis valerieae

Other Information

Venomous?

As with most jumping spiders, Cosmophasis valerieae has venom that it uses to immobilize its prey, which consists mainly of insects and other small arthropods. The venom is effective for subduing their prey but is generally harmless to humans, with bites (which are rare) resulting in minor symptoms such as mild irritation or localized pain.

A Danger to Humans?

Cosmophasis valerieae poses minimal danger to humans. These spiders are not aggressive towards humans and will typically flee rather than attack. Their bites are rare and not medically significant.

Population Status

There is limited information available on the population size of Cosmophasis valerieae. Being a jumping spider, its visibility might be less compared to web-building spiders, making it harder to study and monitor.

Iridescent Jumping Spiders (Cosmophasis valerieae), Photo by David Lowenthal

Life Span:
Jumping spiders typically have a life span ranging from one to several years, depending on environmental conditions and risks of predation. Specific lifespan details for Cosmophasis valerieae are not well-documented.

Weight and Length:
Cosmophasis valerieae, like other jumping spiders, is relatively small. They typically range from 5 to 8 mm in length, with females often being slightly larger than males.

Distribution:
The distribution of Cosmophasis valerieae is specific but not widely documented. Cosmophasis spiders are generally found in Asia and Australia, with each species having its particular range based on ecological niches.

Iridescent Jumping Spiders (Cosmophasis valerieae), Photo by David Lowenthal

Habits and Lifestyle:
Cosmophasis valerieae, as a jumping spider, does not build webs to catch prey but instead uses its excellent vision and quick movements to hunt. They are diurnal hunters, actively seeking out prey during the day.

Diet and Nutrition:
Their diet primarily includes small insects and other arthropods. Their hunting strategy involves stalking or waiting for prey and then leaping onto it, immobilizing it with venom.

Mating Habits:
The mating habits of Cosmophasis valerieae are likely intricate and visually oriented, as is common with many jumping spiders. Males often perform elaborate dances that include visual displays of their colorful bodies to attract females. These displays are crucial as they help males avoid being mistaken for prey and allow them to demonstrate their fitness as mates.

PHOTO COLLECTION

Reference

  1. https://www.inaturalist.org/taxa/832803-Cosmophasis-valerieae