New study reveals that tree species diversity increases spider density

Spiders are often maligned for being creepy critters, but they are some of the most environmentally friendly pest regulators.

Neoscona (orbweaver) spider found by the research team. Photo: Karin Burghardt

Because they actively feed on flies, moths, mosquitoes and roaches, spiders eliminate parasites and many other vectors of disease — protecting both humans and plants from harm.

A study led by scientists at the University of Maryland found a simple way to take advantage of this ecosystem service: give tree-dwelling spiders a more diverse habitat.

The researchers found a strong link between the species diversity of tree habitats and the population density of the spiders that live in them, according to Karin Burghardt, senior author of the study.

"Spiders really like complex habitats, so having a large variety of tree species with different structural features like height, canopy cover and foliage density will help increase spider abundance and also the natural pest regulation they provide."

The researchers found the strongest relationship between tree diversity and spider populations during the late summer months when average temperatures were at their highest.

Spider populations increased more dramatically than those in the single species plots during late August, which could partially be due to spiders' extreme sensitivity to heat.

As average temperatures continue to rise due to climate change, populations of tree-feeding insect pests and occurrences of deadly diseases transmitted by pests like mosquitoes and ticks will likely also steadily increase.

Designing landscapes that support spiders and other beneficial bugs can offer economically and environmentally sustainable ways to counter this trend.

With the results of this study, Burghardt and the team hope to inform stakeholders that land management decisions like tree planting can help keep ecosystems healthy and balanced. (U.S. National Science Foundation)

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