Predation on a Freshwater Crab, Dilocarcinus dentatus (Tricodactylidae), by Several Tropical Wolf Spiders, Ancylometes bogotensis (Ctenidae), in Trinidad, W.I.

Authors

  • Rakesh Bhukal 1. Department of Life Sciences, Faculty of Science and Technology, The University of the West Indies 2. School of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Medical Sciences, UWI, St. Augustine.
  • Mike G. Rutherford Department of Life Sciences, Faculty of Science and Technology, The University of the West Indies
  • Ryan S. Mohammed Department of Life Sciences, Faculty of Science and Technology, The University of the West Indies

Abstract

On 4 September, 2014, during a nocturnal field trip to the Aripo Savannas, Trinidad, (WGS 84 UTM 0697545 1176021), an unusual observation was made. Three adult spiders, Dilocarcinus dentatus, were observed feeding on an adult freshwater crab, Ancylometes bogotensis. The spiders were on vegetation above a flooded trail and there were many crabs in the water below. The crab was initially held by a female spider; two males were then seen to approach and also feed on the crab.

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Published

2015-12-31

Issue

Living World 2015

Section

Nature Notes