Several correlative and manipulative studies have found an association between complex-structured habitats and the density of generalist predators. Identifying the causal mechanisms that underlie the response of generalist predators to complex-structured habitats is important from both basic (e.g. how habitat effects top-down control of herbivores) and applied (e.g. conservation biological control) perspectives. We have identified the ecological mechanisms responsible for the aggregation of a wolf spider in thatch on a Mid-Atlantic salt marsh. Using a series of field and laboratory studies, we found that complex habitats provide refuge from predation and adverse microclimates. However, foraging efficiency is not improved in thatchy habitats, nor do spiders gain refuge from cannibalism within thatch. These results suggest that top-down control of herbivores may be enhanced in thatch when a top predator is present.
Species 1: Araneae Lycosidae Pardosa littoralis
Species 2: Araneae Lycosidae Hogna
Keywords: Intraguild Predation
The ESA 2001 Annual Meeting - 2001: An Entomological Odyssey of ESA