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Helpis minitabunda

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Helpis minitabunda
Female
Male
Scientific classification Edit this classification
Domain: Eukaryota
Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Arthropoda
Subphylum: Chelicerata
Class: Arachnida
Order: Araneae
Infraorder: Araneomorphae
Family: Salticidae
Subfamily: Salticinae
Genus: Helpis
Species:
H. minitabunda
Binomial name
Helpis minitabunda
L.Koch 1880
Synonyms
  • Astia repersa L.Koch
  • Astia minitabunda L.Koch

Helpis minitabunda is a jumping spider. A widespread species in the east and south east of Australia, New Zealand, and in Papua New Guinea, usually found on foliage in moist areas.

Etymology and common names

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Common names include threatening jumping spider and bronze jumping spider. The specific epithet minitabunda is derived from Latin, meaning "threatening". The male may show fearless or threatening behaviour when approached.[1][2]

Appearance

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Unusually for spiders, the male is larger than the female. Male body length to 10 mm, females to 8 mm. The front two pairs of legs are particularly long. The male head has a flat topped caput covered with creamy white hairs. Below are large protruding chelicerae. The demeanor of the female is more cryptic than the male.

Distribution

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These are common in Australia. They can hunt fast. They even hunt other spiders. The pre-mating courtship dance between male and female may last from two to three hours.[3] Helpis minitabunda is an invasive species in New Zealand.[4]

References

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  1. ^ "Helpis minitabunda (L. Koch, 1880)". Atlas of Living Australia. Retrieved February 1, 2020.
  2. ^ "Aussie Bronze Jumper - Helpis minitabunda". Brisbane Insects. Retrieved February 1, 2020.
  3. ^ McKeown, Keith C. (1952). Australian Spiders. Australian Museum: Sirius Books. pp. 244–245.
  4. ^ "Helpis minitabunda (L. Koch 1880) Threatening Jumping Spider". Arachne Australia. Retrieved February 1, 2020.