Maratus, often referred to as Peacock Spiders, are known for the males having a huge range of vibrant, iridescent patterns on their upper abdomens. Their colorful patterns range from spots to stripes to intricate patterns that almost resemble faces or even artwork.
These tiny spiders are 4–5 mm (0.2 in) in length, but showcase huge range of colors. The upper surface of the male abdomens have a “plate” or “fan” of brightly colored, highly iridescent scales and hairs. During courtship or aggressive interactions with other males, they form patterns in which the foreground colors contrast with the iridescent background.
Artist Maria Fernanda Cardoso has a fabulous new series that showcases the intricate beauty of these diminutive yet outsized spiders. Showcasing native Maratus spiders of Australia, we swear one of them even looks like it has a pattern of a koala on its abdomen.
See more of this series on the Museum of Contemporary Art Australia’s website.
Photography © Copyright Maria Fernanda Cardoso, courtesy of the Museum of Contemporary Art Australia.
“Cardoso’s subject is the tiny Australian Maratus spider – measuring less than 5mm in size – and their unique, brightly-coloured abdomens, which form part of their elaborate mating rituals.
Across a suite of large-scale photographs, the exquisite multi-coloured patterns of various species of Maratus are presented as individual portraits.”
