Size Composition of Prey in the Orb-Web Spider Nephila clavata Estimated by Video Recordings and Sight-Count Censuses

Abstract

Size composition of prey by number and feeding time was estimated in the orb-web spider Nephila clavata by means of video recordings and sight-count censuses. Small prey (≦2mm in body length) constituted more than 80% by number and nearly 30% of feeding time. Distributions of prey size in terms of feeding time were similar between the two methods. Considerable variation in feeding time was found among individuals, but the small prey were eaten relatively constant. The significance of small prey and reasons for wide range utilization of prey size in web-building spiders are discussed. © 1992, Arachnological Society of Japan. All rights reserved.