Description

• Corythalia opima is a species of jumping spider in the family Salticidae. Jumping spiders have compact bodies, prominent forward-facing eyes and excellent vision for locating prey and navigating their surroundings. Members of Corythalia are often patterned in shades of brown, grey or black, sometimes with contrasting markings. They hunt by stalking and jumping on prey rather than building webs to capture it.

Range

• Corythalia opima is recorded in the Neotropical region, including parts of Central America and Mexico. It is treated here as present in Zihuatanejo, Guerrero, Mexico.

Habitat

• This spider is associated with terrestrial vegetation and sheltered surfaces in tropical environments. Members of Corythalia may be found among leaf litter, on low plants, along forest edges and in other places where small arthropods are abundant. They move actively while searching for prey and may retreat into sheltered spaces when disturbed.

Diet

• Corythalia opima is a predator that feeds on small insects and other arthropods. It uses its keen eyesight to locate prey, then approaches and captures it with a rapid pounce. Like other jumping spiders, it can attach a silk safety line to the surface while moving or leaping.