New species of 'dancing' peacock spiders discovered

Scientist Jurgen Otto has found seven new species of dazzling peacock spiders.

Male coastal peacock spiders appeal to potential female mates by 'dancing'. Source: YouTube

An Australian scientist has discovered seven new types of peacock spiders, bringing the total number of confirmed spiders within the species to 48.

Dr Jurgen Otto said the peacock spiders, with their myriad of colour combinations and 'dance moves', are beautiful.

The biologist has shared photographs of the tiny spiders with many arachnophobes who are surprisingly delighted by them, he says.

"Normally people think of spiders as something ugly, scary and dangerous, but they're learning through my photographs and videos they're cute and colourful and adorable," Dr Otto told ABC News.

"Even people who hate spiders, extreme arachnophobes, love these spiders. They can't help it."

The spiders are found in bushland and scrub all throughout Australia.