Vertical distribution of spiders (Araneae) in Central European shallow subterranean habitats

Shallow subterranean habitats are among the last in Central Europe to be arachnologically researched. Using stratified pipe traps, we studied vertical distribution of spiders soil and interspaces bedrock (shallow habitats). Specifically, sampled fauna different substrates, including limestone, sandy marlstone, marl, claystone, loess, artificial gravel accumulation. Employing traps allowed us identify depth at which particular species occurred. Across multiple years sampling sites, collected 76 spider species, 21 showed an affinity for microhabitats. Some these occurred bedrock, whereas others have been previously found ant nests animal burrows. We five ( Iberina microphthalma , Centromerus cf. piccolo, Porrhomma cambridgei P. microcavense microps ) almost exclusively depths over half a meter, suggesting strong lifestyle. provide diagrams species’ photo-document eye reduction. Our study demonstrates that poorly shallow harbor diverse fauna, several considered rare Europe.