2 new spider species dubbed 'Sparklemuffin' and 'Skeletorus'

2 new spider species dubbed 'Sparklemuffin' and 'Skeletorus'

(Courtesy of Jürgen Otto)


14 photos
Save Story
Leer en español

Estimated read time: 2-3 minutes

This archived news story is available only for your personal, non-commercial use. Information in the story may be outdated or superseded by additional information. Reading or replaying the story in its archived form does not constitute a republication of the story.

AUSTRALIA — Peacock spiders are popular for their bright colors and intricate dances, and two new species received quirky names to match.

A recent report introduced “Sparklemuffin” and “Skeletorus” to the world. The two species, which both belong to the maratus genus, were discovered at Wondul Range National Park in Queensland, Australia, according to the report published in the journal Peckhamia.

"Despite the large number of species we have discovered just in the last few years, I can't help feeling that we may have just scratched the surface of this most exciting group of spiders and that nature has quite a few more surprises in store," co-author Jürgen Otto told Live Science.

Skeletorus, which also has the more scientific name of Maratus sceletus, is most unique for its mostly black and white "skeleton-like pattern," according to the report. Otto wrote that it is also the only Maratus species he has seen so far with a “nose.”

Researchers said Sparklemuffin, also known as Maratus jactatus, has a distinctly “soft appearance.” Live Science reported that the spider got its nickname from a graduate student, Madeline Girard, who first found the spider.

Otto specializes in taking pictures of peacock spiders and capturing their mating dances. Numerous videos and images can be found online.

[Post](https://www.facebook.com/video.php?v=653621381414653) by [Peacock Spider](https://www.facebook.com/PeacockSpider).
[Post](https://www.facebook.com/video.php?v=664850916958366) by [Peacock Spider](https://www.facebook.com/PeacockSpider).

Photos

Related links

Most recent Utah stories

Related topics

Utah
Natalie Crofts

    STAY IN THE KNOW

    Get informative articles and interesting stories delivered to your inbox weekly. Subscribe to the KSL.com Trending 5.
    By subscribing, you acknowledge and agree to KSL.com's Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.

    KSL Weather Forecast