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Rainbow Jumping Spider (Chrysilla volupe): these colorful spiders were regarded as an extinct species for nearly 150 years, until they were finally rediscovered in 2018
The males of this species have a stunning, almost rainbow-like appearance, thanks to the bands of color and iridescent scales that cover their bodies.
Despite the fact that Chrysilla volupe is probably the most flamboyant spider in the world, it was still lost to science for nearly 150 years. The species was first described in 1879, but there were no documented sightings of it for 139 years after that, until researchers finally tracked it down again in 2018. The female of this species was also described for the very first time in 2018 -- prior to that, Chrysilla volupe was known only from male specimens.
The spiders have been found in certain parts of India, Sri Lanka, Nepal, and Bhutan. Like most jumping spiders, they are quite small: the males can measure up to 5.44mm long (and that includes their outstretched legs), while the females are less than half that size.
Sources & More Info:
Journal of Entomology & Zoology Studies: Chrysilla volupe Spider Spotted in Eastern Ghats, India (PDF)
The Hindu: Rare Chrysilla volupe Spiders Discovered at Puttenahalli Lake
Arthropoda Selecta: First Description of the Female of Chrysilla volupe from India, with Notes on the Species' Distribution & Life History
Peckhamia: New Records of Jumping Spiders from Nepal
Global Biodiversity Information Facility: C. volupe
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OMG I found jumping spider in my room!
It's so smol! I think it's zebra spider (Salticus scenicus), but I may be wrong. Just look at this blorbo!
I think one of my favourite jumping spiders is Opisthoncus necator just because its common name is just “The Murderer” for some reason, so if I ever go to look at it on iNat, I am greeted with this very accusatory title and what is essentially its mug shot
fun USA 🇺🇸 fact: the flag’s design was based on the colors of this beautiful jumping spider! Habronattus americanus pair, coastal WA.
July 4th is a holiday dedicated to appreciating this tiny arachnid, with people setting off fireworks in emulation of its iridescence and graceful movement.
How about Maratus rainbowi? (a silly lookin type of peacock spider ^^)
The silly guy from Webbed! Magnificent. I'll be doing the poll on Maratus spendens, because Maratus rainbowi seems to be an inactive taxon. I've included a picture of a female, just for fun.
I love jumping spiders so much. There's something about the way they move that belies their incredible intelligence. The way their cephalothorax swivels about; the way they take small, thoughtful steps between contemplative pauses. You can tell they're examining and considering their surroundings, and when they make eye contact you FEEL it. I adore these little guys.
Had the pleasure to bump into this wonderful creature ✨️