Foraging behavior in spiders can be influenced by a variety of factors. Here we investigate the effects of hunger and predation risk on feeding behavior in the wolf spider Pardosa milvina (Hentz 1877) (Araneae, Lycosidae). Pardosa milvina is preyed upon by the larger wolf spider, Hogna helluo (Walckenaer 1837), and responds with appropriate antipredator behavior to the silk and feces of this species. We predicted that hungry Pardosa milvina would be more likely to forage and consume prey under predation risk than satiated individuals. We found that hungry Pardosa under predation risk consumed as many prey as spiders not under predation risk. However, satiated Pardosa consumed significantly fewer prey when under predation risk. Our data suggest that the animal's energetic needs are weighed against the risks of foraging when predators may be present.
How to translate text using browser tools
1 December 2003
HUNGRY SPIDERS AREN'T AFRAID OF THE BIG BAD WOLF SPIDER
Sean E. Walker,
Ann L. Rypstra
ACCESS THE FULL ARTICLE