Fungus and fruit consumption by harvestmen and spiders (Opiliones, Araneae): the vegetarian side of two predominantly predaceous arachnid groups

In this review, we report on harvestmen and spiders feeding fungi, fruits, seeds. Fungivory in is widespread, with most reports referring to tropical species the family Sclerosomatidae, which consume mainly small forest mushrooms (families Marasmiaceae Mycenaceae). contrast, consumption of fungal material by apparently occurs only if airborne spores trapped viscid threads orb-webs (e.g., Araneidae Tetragnathidae) are ingested along old webs prior construction new webs. Consumption fruit pulp also several records Leiobunum spp. (Sclerosomatidae) Rubus berries other lipid-poor fruits Holarctic region. Neotropical forests, families Cosmetidae Gonyleptidae feed fallen fruits. Among spiders, document cases synanthropic opportunistically waste pieces banana, papaya, watermelon, or orange pulp) inside houses disposed yards. Only one case a spider wild field was found our search. Finally, elaiosomes arils (i.e., lipid-rich seed appendages). conclusion, mushrooms, pulp, seeds, appendages more frequently than probably because they “solid food feeders”, means can ingest solid tissues biting off pieces. turn, “fluid feeders” vegetable matter form fluids nectar, stigmatic exudate, plant sap, honey dew), rather tissues.