The first record of Diplocephalus graecus (Araneae: Linyphiidae) in Germany with comments on its range expansion

Abstract

Diplocephalus graecus (O. Pickard-Cambridge, 1873), a very common holomediterranean species, has undergone a remarkable range expansion in the western Palaearctic region over the past two decades. Recently, the species was found for the first time in Germany in a field near Aachen (North Rhine-Westphalia). We traced the potential dispersal path of D. graecus and provide additional insights into the biology of this species. This record additionally highlights the considerable range expansion of D. graecus, which may have implications for the biodiversity and ecological dynamics of the region.