Austracantha minax
Jewel Spider Identification in Australia
Small hard-bodied orb-weaver with bright jewel-like colours and spiny projections.
Usually low riskJewel spiders are small but distinctive because of their bright, hard, spiked abdomen. Their small orb web in low vegetation is an important confirmation clue: a bright, pointed shape away from a circular web may be a different garden invertebrate altogether. Pattern and colour can vary, so use the hard outline, short spines and web together, then compare with other small spiny or knobbled orb-weavers. These are usually low-risk garden spiders and are best observed in place rather than removed from their web.
Quick identification
- Small bright spider
- Hard spiny abdomen
- Often white, yellow, orange or black markings
- Sits in a small orb web
What to check next
Check for the hard spiked body outline and small web in low vegetation.
When to seek medical help
Seek advice for severe or unusual symptoms.
Where it is usually seen
Grass, shrubs, fences, gardens and low vegetation.