Science Visualized Animals

Tiny structures give a peacock spider its radiant rump

Pigments produce reds and creamy yellows, while nanostructures reflect blue hues

peacock spider

BRILLIANT BUTTS  Researchers have deciphered the biophysics behind peacock spider bling. 

Jürgen C. Otto (Flickr; YouTube)

By Helen Thompson

- More than 2 years ago

Male peacock spiders know how to work their angles and find their light.

The arachnids, native to Australia, raise their derriere — or, more accurately, a flap on their hind end — skyward and shake it to attract females.