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Dolomedes facetus
Dark spiders with white (males) or orange (females) band on the edge of the head (carapace) and dark body and legs with some white flecks. Males and females are similar in size. Legs span up to 70mm. Bite is toxic to fish, but less so to humans. This spotting is of a mature male. Photos 3 & 4 are of a very young juvenile found in the same area. Perfectly adapted to the environment. Another possible ID for this spotting is Dolomedes instabilis, also an Australian native.
Spotted at Enoggera Creek, at margin of native subtropical rainforest in the Brisbane Forest Park. During heavy rains this creek becomes a torrent, but today it was flowing very slowly, and totally still at this spot. Area very cool and well-shaded. Tiny fish and tadpoles spotted.
Even though the reference link says "bad request", please ignore this. It will still take you to the site required - Queensland Museum.
Spotted on Apr 18, 2015
Submitted on Apr 18, 2015
4 Comments
So do I. Thanks.
Very nice shot Neil. Lovely spider.
Thanks, Maria. How those pointy legs don't break the surface tension of the water is quite amazing.
Very nice series showing close-up, how it sits on the water and the habitat!