Occurrence of Jumping Spiders (Araneae: Salticidae ) in Alfalfa Agroecosystems, in Western Saudi Arabia PDF

Keywords

soil, foliage, spiders

Abstract

The seasonal occurrence of soil and foliage dwelling salticid spiders was studied in an alfalfa agroecosystem in western Saudi Arabia in 1990-1991. Six of the collected species were new to the scientific world and were described and identified. Six other salticids are reported for the first time existing in alfalfa agroecosystems in western Saudi Arabia. The salticid spiders dwelled on foliage more than in the soil. Three peaks were observed throughout the season during October, January, and August, with a pronounced peak during August. The aestivation period occurred during December. Based on their numbers, continued presence and veracious feeding behavior in the alfalfa agroecosystem, they show great potential as promising candidates for controlling major pests and thus to be included in an integrated pest management (IPM) program.