Predatory Behaviour of Jumping Spiders

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Provide evidence of flexible predatory behaviour and discuss why it should be more so than their prey Over evolutionary time, natural selection has shaped the morphology and behaviour of animals (Wilcox & Jackson, 1998). Therefore, many animals have evolved to be flexible predators, meaning they flexibly alter their behaviour in the face of environmental change, to ensure the successful predation of many prey species (Shettleworth, 2010). Not only this, but these predatory behaviours can be complex and illustrate an astonishing level of cognition (Jackson & Pollard, 1996). This essay provides evidence of the complex, flexible predatory behaviours of Portia, a genus of jumping spider (Salticid) (Jackson & Pollard, 1996). Distinctive from other spider species, Salticids have evolved to acquire acute vision, which is thought to have mediated the development of its diverse predatory behaviours (Jackson & Pollard, 1996). Portia, said to be the ‘ultimate Salticid’ and not only builds prey-catching webs but invades other spiders webs preying upon insects, spiders and their egg sacs (Jackson & Pollard, 1996). Portia have been found to employ a diverse array of predatory strategies such as aggressive mimicry, trial-and-error, and opportunistic smokescreen behaviour all of which will be discussed. This essay will then discuss why predators should be more flexible than their prey. When first entering a spider’s web Portia has been observed to broadcast a kaleidoscope of diverse vibratory signals across its victims, the resident spider’s web (Jackson & Wilcox, 1993b). Portia produces these signals by manipulating the web using its eight legs, two palps and abdomen singly or in combination. The resident spider responds to these signals similarly to when an insect is ensnared in its web. Oblivious to Portia’s presence, once its victim gets close,

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