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Jumping spiders (Araneae: Salticidae) that feed on nectar

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  29 August 2001

Robert R. Jackson
Affiliation:
Department of Zoology, University of Canterbury, Christchurch 8002, New Zealand
Simon D. Pollard
Affiliation:
Canterbury Museum, Rolleston Avenue, Christchurch 8001, New Zealand
Ximena J. Nelson
Affiliation:
Department of Zoology, University of Canterbury, Christchurch 8002, New Zealand
G. B. Edwards
Affiliation:
Florida State Collection of Arthropods, Division of Plant Industry, Gainesville, FL 32614-7100, U.S.A.
Alberto T. Barrion
Affiliation:
Entomology Division, International Rice Research Institute, P.O. Box 3127, Makati Central Post Office, 1271 Makati City, Philippines
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Abstract

Nectivory was studied in 90 species from the spider family Salticidae. Observations of 31 of these species feeding on nectar from flowers in nature was the impetus for laboratory tests in which all 90 species fed from flowers. That sugar, not just water, is relevant to salticids was implied by choice tests where salticids spent more time drinking from a simulated nectar source (30% sucrose solution) than from distilled water. Our findings suggest that nectar feeding may be widespread, if not routine, in salticid spiders.

Type
Research Article
Copyright
© 2001 The Zoological Society of London

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