Jumping spider - Opisthoncus poluphemus/cyclops spider, 5mm female

Jumping spider - Opisthoncus poluphemus/cyclops spider, 5mm female

Opisthoncus polyphemus, commonly known as the Cyclops jumping spider or polkadot jumper, is a species of jumping spider in the family Salticidae. It is found in Australia, New Guinea, and New Zealand.

The species was first recorded in New Zealand in the year 2000. Adult females typically measure 8–9 mm in body length, while males are smaller at 6–7 mm. If your spider is around 5 mm, it is likely a female.

Females have a pale yellow-orange body with white markings, while males are a darker red-brown. The most distinctive feature is the prominent black circles surrounding the eyes, which make them appear larger than normal and give the spider its name – Polyphemus was the one-eyed giant in Greek mythology.

This species is highly active during the day, roaming foliage to hunt insects and other arthropods. They are known to be inquisitive and will sometimes jump onto a camera lens if one gets too close. Female spiders roll a leaf into a tube to create a retreat where they lay their eggs in a sac.