Cosmophasis thalassina
Sea-Green Northern Jumper Identification Australia
Tiny metallic green, turquoise, black and white jumping spider from warm Queensland gardens, rainforest edges and leafy vegetation.
Usually low riskSea-green northern jumpers are small Australian jumping spiders best checked when an iridescent green or turquoise spider is seen on leaves, sunny walls or garden plants in Queensland. They can be confused with other Cosmophasis jumping spiders, so use location, metallic body bands, large forward-facing eyes and short jumping movement together rather than relying on colour alone.
Quick identification
- Small jumping spider with large forward-facing eyes
- Male often shows metallic sea-green or turquoise bands with black and white markings
- Short stop-start movement and little jumps rather than a capture web
- Strong Queensland clue, especially warm leafy gardens, parks, rainforest edges and riverine vegetation
What to check next
Check the location first: this is mainly a Queensland northern jumper. Look for metallic green or turquoise banding, black-and-white patterning, jumping-spider eyes and active movement on leaves, sunny walls or garden plants. Compare with sparkling northern jumping spiders and green jumping spiders if the markings are unclear.
When to seek medical help
This spider is not usually considered dangerous. Avoid handling it and seek medical advice for severe pain, allergic symptoms, infection signs, spreading symptoms or uncertainty after any bite.
Where it is usually seen
Warm Queensland gardens, parks, leafy shrubs, rainforest edges, riverine vegetation, low plants and sunny walls where small jumping spiders hunt by sight.