Several new species of peacock spider – just a few millimetres long and featuring extraordinary colours – have been discovered in Western Australia and South Australia. Jürgen Otto, a biologist from Sydney, has been researching the arachnids since 2005, and has gained a significant following online with his footage. He believes there are now 48 confirmed species of peacock spider within the Maratus genus, found across Australia but particularly in Western Australia – and many more awaiting confirmation. Here: Maratus Tasmanicus, one of seven new species of peacock spiders studied by the Sydney biologist Jürgen Otto. (Photo by Jürgen Otto)

A model prepares backstage ahead of the Amber & Thomas show during Rosemount Australian Fashion Week Spring/Summer 2011/12 at Overseas Passenger Terminal on May 3, 2011 in Sydney, Australia. (Photo by Ryan Pierse/Getty Images)

Artwork by Ruth Bellotti & Steve Rosewell called “Soldier Scale 1:1” is seen at the 2008 Sculpture by the Sea launch at Mark's Park, Bondi on October 15, 2008 in Sydney, Australia. (Photo by Gaye Gerard/Getty Images)

Rowan Atkinson poses with Shaolin Monks at the “Johnny English Reborn” world premiere at The Entertainment Quarter on September 4, 2011 in Sydney, Australia. (Photo by Lisa Maree Williams/Getty Images)

3D interactive artist Joe Hill poses with one of his works as part of the VisitBritain tourism campaign at Circular Quay on September 6, 2011 in Sydney, Australia. (Photo by Mark Metcalfe/Getty Images)

Cynthia the Kodiak Bear enjoys a whole Tasmanian Atlantic Salmon to celebrate her 28th birthday at Taronga Zoo on January 17, 2005 in Sydney, Australia. (Photo by Matt King/Getty Images)

A baby Chimpanzee plays in its enclosure at Taronga Zoo July 14, 2006 in Sydney, Australia. (Photo by Ian Waldie/Getty Images)

A model showcases designs by Friend Of Mine on the catwalk during Rosemount Australian Fashion Week Spring/Summer 2011/12 at Overseas Passenger Terminal on May 2, 2011 in Sydney, Australia. (Photo by Stefan Gosatti/Getty Images)