The function of spider egg sacs in relation to parasitoids and predators, with special reference to the Australian fauna

1985/04/01 by Andrew D. Austin, A.D. Austin · 7 citations
Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology · Agricultural and Biological Sciences · #Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies #Genetic diversity and population structure #Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny

paper · doi:10.1080/00222938500770261

Abstract

The function of spider egg sacs is analysed as structures to reduce or prevent mortality by parasitoids and predators. The host relationships of the groups concerned are documented, with special reference to the Australian fauna. Many new records are presented and the biology of each group is discussed. Information presented supports the hypothesis that egg sacs are an effective barrier against scavenging predators (generalists), while coevolution between spiders and their specialized (highly adapted) parasitoids and predators is responsible for the specificity displayed by the latter two groups and the structural diversity evident of egg sacs.

Cited by

• An estimated 400–800 million tons of prey are annually killed by the global spider community
• The changing use of the ovipositor in host shifts by ichneumonid ectoparasitoids of spiders (Hymenoptera, Ichneumonidae, Pimplinae)
• Ecosystem services provided by spiders
• Spider cocoons and their suspension systems as barriers to generalist and specialist predators
• Ovipositors, Amnions and Eggshell Architecture in the Diversification of Terrestrial Arthropods
• Revision of the world species of Piogaster Perkins (Hymenoptera, Ichneumonidae, Pimplinae), ectoparasitoids of jumping spiders (Araneae, Salticidae) with a description of one new species
• Death comes on two wings: a review of dipteran natural enemies of arachnids

Related

• Just Hang On: Australian Gall Midges Suspend Themselves on Spider Silk Without Becoming Entangled
• The changing use of the ovipositor in host shifts by ichneumonid ectoparasitoids of spiders (Hymenoptera, Ichneumonidae, Pimplinae)
• The accoutrements of spiders' eggs (Araneae) with an exploration of their functional importance
• Death comes on two wings: a review of dipteran natural enemies of arachnids
• Web Inception: Small Australia Spiders Construct Orb Webs in the Aerial Webs of Larger Hosts