Density‐independent prey choice, taxonomy, life history, and web characteristics determine the diet and biocontrol potential of spiders (Linyphiidae and Lycosidae) in cereal crops

Spiders are among the dominant invertebrate predators in agricultural systems and significant regulators of insect pests. The precise dynamics biocontrol pests field are, however, poorly understood. This study investigates how density-independent prey choice, taxonomy, life stage, sex, web characteristics affect spider diet biocontrol. We collected spiders four genera Linyphiidae (i.e., Bathyphantes, Erigone, Tenuiphantes, Microlinyphia), individuals from Lycosidae genus Pardosa, their proximate communities barley fields Wales, UK between April September 2018. analyzed gut contents 300 individual using DNA metabarcoding. From screened, 89 taxa were identified 45 families, including a wide range predators. Thrips prey, present over third sampled, but type IV functional response appears to reduce predation at peak abundances. Spider diets significantly differed based on characteristics, this depended sex it was not principal separating factor trophic niches linyphiids lycosids. Diets stages, reflected different propensities for intraguild pest predation. Adult predated greater diversity other predators, juveniles Overall, Tenuiphantes spp. Bathyphantes exhibited greatest potential genera. niche complementarity Pardosa Erigone spp., suggests that complementary might be overall benefit Sustainable agriculture should aim optimize conditions throughout cropping cycle effective biocontrol, prioritizing provision which predate species.