Cosmophasis micarioides
Sparkling Northern Jumping Spider Identification in Australia
Small iridescent jumping spider from northern Australia, often blue, silver, black or bronze, seen on plants and sunny walls.
Usually low riskSparkling northern jumping spiders are eye-catching salticids from northern Australia. They are usually noticed because of their metallic colours, large front-facing eyes and quick stop-start jumping movement on leaves, walls and garden surfaces. Metallic blue, silver or bronze is not enough for a species call on its own; use the eye arrangement, active hunting behaviour, markings and northern setting together, then compare similar Cosmophasis jumpers if the photo is unclear.
Quick identification
- Small jumping spider with large front-facing eyes
- Males may look metallic blue, silver or black
- Females can be bronze, brown or patterned
- Often moves in short bursts on leaves, walls or fences
What to check next
Check for metallic colouring, large front eyes and short jumping movements. Similar Cosmophasis species can look close, so treat this as a guide match rather than a confirmed species.
When to seek medical help
Jumping spiders are not usually considered dangerous. Seek medical advice for severe pain, allergic symptoms, infection signs, spreading symptoms or uncertainty after any bite.
Where it is usually seen
Well-vegetated areas, gardens, shrubs, sunny walls, fences and building edges in northern Australia, especially Queensland and nearby tropical or subtropical areas.