Comparison of natural histories and karyotypes of two closely related ant-eating spiders, Zodarion hamatum and Zodarion italicum (Araneae, Zodariidae)
| Authors | |
|---|---|
| Year of publication | 2005 |
| Type | Article in Periodical |
| Magazine / Source | Journal of Natural History |
| MU Faculty or unit | |
| Citation | |
| Field | Zoology |
| Keywords | Formicidae; mimicry; myrmecophagy; phenology; reproductive strategy |
| Description | The aim of this study was to evaluate similarity of two species in respect to various aspects of their natural history and karyotypes. Both species had similar phenological pattern in the study sites - being univoltine, but with a tendency to bivoltinism. Both representatives had nocturnal activity and were able to capture various ant species. Z. hamatum seems to be specialised on Myrmicinae ants, and Z. italicum on Formicinae ants. Z. hamatum showed more agile predatory behaviour than Z. italicum presumably due to specialisation on Myrmicinae ants, which have lower density. Both species are generalised mimics of bicoloured (orange-dark brown) ants, such as Lasius emarginatu. The two study species exhibited contrasting reproductive strategies. |
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