The ‘sparklemuffin’ has captured widespread interest due to its captivating appearance and memorable name. This spider showcases remarkable characteristics. Its vibrant colors and intricate behaviors highlight the diversity of arachnids. Understanding this unique spider begins with its scientific classification and recent discovery.
Identity and Discovery
The creature commonly known as the “sparklemuffin” is scientifically identified as Maratus jactatus. This species belongs to the Maratus genus, known as peacock spiders, and is part of the Salticidae family, known as jumping spiders. Maratus jactatus was officially described in 2015, a recent addition to the catalogue of known spider species.
Its discovery is credited to UC Berkeley PhD student Madeline Girard and entomologist Jürgen Otto. The species was found in the Wondul Range National Park in southern Queensland, Australia. The informal name “sparklemuffin” was given by Madeline Girard, inspired by the spider’s vibrant coloration. This playful moniker quickly gained traction, highlighting the spider’s distinctive visual appeal.
Distinctive Features and Display
The male Maratus jactatus is known for its striking physical characteristics, which include iridescent, colorful abdominal flaps. These flaps display a vivid array of reds, blues, and oranges, and can be fanned out to resemble a “cape” or “fan” during specific behaviors. The brilliant colors are produced by specialized scales on the abdomen that reflect light. These spiders are quite small, with adult males typically measuring about 0.16 to 0.2 inches (4 to 5 millimeters) in length.
The male’s elaborate courtship display is a significant reason for its fame. When a male encounters a female, he performs a complex dance involving raising his abdominal flaps, vibrating his body, and waving his third pair of legs. The Latin name jactatus itself means “rocking” or “jolting,” a direct reference to the rapid, jerking movements that characterize this courtship ritual. This intricate performance is designed to attract a female and demonstrate the male’s fitness. Female Maratus jactatus are less colorful, exhibiting more muted brown and gray tones, which helps them blend into their surroundings. If the female is not sufficiently impressed by the male’s display, she may attempt to attack or even consume him.
Natural Habitat
The sparklemuffin spider is native to Australia, with its primary known range located in southern Queensland. These spiders inhabit various environments, including open woodlands, scrublands, and grasslands. They are often found among leaf litter and sandy areas, where their small size and natural camouflage assist them in blending into the terrain.
As ground-dwelling spiders, they do not construct webs for capturing prey. Instead, they are active hunters, relying on their exceptional eyesight to locate small insects and arthropods, which form their diet. The mating season typically occurs during the Australian spring, from August through December. During this period, females may create silken egg sacs, often attached to ground debris, to protect their offspring.