Visual preference of flower‐visiting crab spiders (Ebrechtella tricuspidata) for host flowers

Abstract

1. Crab spiders (Thomisidae) are common flower-visiting spiders that ambush prey on inflorescences. As such, they require specific flowers or substrates for hunting, which are most often selected using sensory cues (e.g. vision). However, few studies have examined the visual preference of crab spiders for particular flowers. In this study, the visual preferences of the crab spider Ebrechtella tricuspidata for different inflorescence characteristics (e.g. colour and shape) were investigated.2. The results showed that adult spiders explored all colours and shapes, whereas juvenile spiders displayed an overall preference for long (red) and short (purple) wavelength colours. Thus, differences in colour were not particularly important for E. tricuspidata with regard to visual attractiveness and selection.3. However, inflorescence shape (e.g. tulip) was found to be a more desirable trait for selection, which was probably due to the provision of shelter.4. These results also suggest that male preference for female spiders depended somewhat on the background colour (wavelength) of the flower on which the female was located.

Multiple reproductive strategies of a spring ephemeral plant, Fritillaria maximowiczii, enable its adaptation to harsh environments

“…Generally speaking, flowers can provide a suitable place for spider protection, hunting and reproduction. For example, inflorescence shape (e.g., Tulipa gesneriana ) was found to be a more desirable trait for selection, probably because of its influence on the provision of shelter (Su, Qi, Yun, Zhang, & Peng, 2020). F. maximowiczii has a similar floral shape.…”

Central Asian wild tulip conservation requires a regional approach, especially in the face of climate change

“…This array of wild taxa has historically underpinned the large horticultural trade, something that has significantly complicated the taxonomy of this clade (Christenhusz et al 2013). Wild species remain a significant genetic resource for horticultural breeders, have considerable cultural value, and play an important role in ecosystems, especially for pollinators and insects (Kashin et al 2016;Su et al 2020). Wild tulips grow in the temperate regions of the northern hemisphere.…”