University of Bonn researchers discover regulated sleep in jumping spiders

Researchers at the University of Bonn have identified that jumping spiders, specifically the species Portia fimbriata, exhibit regulated sleep patterns similar to humans. The study, published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (PNAS), demonstrates that these spiders undergo distinct sleep phases.

Observations made via infrared cameras revealed two primary stages: a quiescent phase where the spider remains nearly motionless, and a phase characterized by involuntary movements. These movements include leg twitches and rapid retinal shifts, which bear a resemblance to REM sleep in vertebrates.

Additionally, the research confirms that these spiders can catch up on lost sleep following a disturbed night. The study provides some of the most complete experimental evidence to date that spiders engage in true sleep rather than mere rest.