Publication details
Comparison of a trophic niche and capture efficiency between an araneophagous specialist and a generalist (Gnaphosidae, Lamponidae)
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| Year of publication | 2015 |
| Type | Conference abstract |
| Citation | |
| Description | Trophic specialization among predators may be the driving force behind the evolution of specific adaptations, especially if the prey is dangerous. The prey of araneophagous spiders (i.e. spiders hunting other spiders) is dangerous because it possess weapons such as venom and silk. Therefore araneophagous specialists have evolved many adaptations, which allow hunting such a prey. The aim of this study was to explore trophic niche and selected aspects of predation of araneophagous specialist Lampona murina in comparison with related generalist Drassodes lapidosus. L. murina had narrow trophic niche with dominance of spider prey, while the niche of D. lapidosus was wide. L. murina also captured spiders bigger than itself with higher success. Comparison of paralysis latency of two prey types (spider and cricket) revealed the venom of L. murina was more effective for both prey types than the venom of D. lapidosus. Investigation of hunting strategy showed L. murina relied on grasping a prey with two pairs of legs possessing dense hair, so called scopulae. D. lapidosus immobilized a prey with a silk. The results indicate L. murina possess adaptations – such as effective venom, specific hunting strategy and hardened cuticle – analogical to adaptations of non-related araneophagic spiders. These adaptations increase the effectivity of hunting the spider prey. |