Jumping spider - (largest specis in NZ) Trite planiceps, now is 5mm size, will grow up to 13mm.

Jumping spider - (largest specis in NZ) Trite planiceps, now is 5mm size, will grow up to 13mm.

Trite planiceps, commonly known as the black-headed jumping spider, is the largest jumping spider species in New Zealand. While your spider is currently 5 mm, adults typically grow to 6 to 13.5 mm in body length.

The front half of the body and the first pair of legs are jet black. The elongated abdomen is golden-brown with a central yellow stripe, sometimes with a greenish sheen. Males have elongated front legs, a row of dark hairs above their front eyes, and more robust mouthparts.

This native New Zealand spider is commonly found in flax plants and cabbage trees, often hiding inside curled-up leaves. It is also frequently seen in and around houses.

Like all jumping spiders, Trite planiceps has excellent eyesight and actively stalks and pounces on prey. Interestingly, it can also hunt effectively in complete darkness, which is unusual for jumping spiders. It is harmless to humans – bites are very rare and venom effects are mild.