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VOL. 11, ISSUE 3 (2026)
Preliminary studies on distribution diversity and physical properties of the nests of social spider fauna in Srivaikundam (Tamil Nadu, India)
Authors
Petchidurai G, Velankanny M
Abstract
The present study investigated the
distribution, diversity, habitat association, and nest characteristics of
social spiders in Srivaikundam. Field surveys were conducted across five habitat
types. We recorded 79 social spider nests, with Stegodyphus sarasinorum
(Eresidae) occurring across all surveyed habitats, while Cyrtophora
cicatrosa (Araneidae) was recorded only in riverine vegetation. The highest
nest abundance was observed in dry scrubland (34.2%), followed by agricultural
margins (22.8%), riverine scrub (17.7%), roadside shrubs (13.9%), and open
wasteland (11.4%). Prosopis juliflora and Acacia nilotica were
the predominant nesting substrates. Nest dimensions differed significantly
among habitats (one-way ANOVA, p < 0.01). Nest volume showed a strong
positive correlation with colony size (Pearson’s r = 0.91, p <
0.001), indicating its potential as an indicator of colony development. Nests
in exposed and disturbed habitats exhibited more compact structures, suggesting
adaptation to local environmental conditions. The findings emphasize the
ecological importance of natural scrubland and riverine vegetation for
maintaining social spider populations and provide baseline information for
future studies on their ecology, behavior, and conservation in semi-arid
regions of Tamil Nadu.
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Pages:522-529
How to cite this article:
Petchidurai G, Velankanny M "Preliminary studies on distribution diversity and physical properties of the nests of social spider fauna in Srivaikundam (Tamil Nadu, India)". International Journal of Entomology Research, Vol 11, Issue 3, 2026, Pages 522-529
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