Spiders (Araneae) as Prey of Robber Flies (Diptera: Asilidae)

Authors

  • Steve D. Dennis
  • Robert James Lavigne
  • Jeanne G. Dennis

Keywords:

Araneae, spiders, prey, robber flies, Diptera, Asilidae.

Abstract

 There are many references on the Internet and in the published literature to robber flies preying upon spiders. However, an evaluation of available data summarized in the Asilidae Predator-Prey Database reveals that spiders make up only a small percentage of the robber fly diet (less than 1% of approximately 58,000 prey listed in the Database). The types of spider chosen as prey are discussed and examined in relation to robber fly classification. Robber fly methods of capturing spiders are examined and comments about spiders preying upon robber flies are provided.

Author Biography

Robert James Lavigne

Dept of Renewable Resources, University of Wyoming, Laramie, WY, USA - Retired-Honorary Research Associate, South Australian Museum. North Terrace, Adelaide 5000, SA

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Published

16.03.2012

How to Cite

Dennis, S. D., Lavigne, R. J., & Dennis, J. G. (2012). Spiders (Araneae) as Prey of Robber Flies (Diptera: Asilidae). Journal of the Entomological Research Society, 14(1), 65–76. Retrieved from https://www.entomol.org/journal/index.php/JERS/article/view/357

Issue

Section

Journal of the Entomological Research Society