Reed jumping spider
Marpissa radiata
The reed jumping spider is a characteristic species of wet habitats, particularly reed beds. It is distinguished by a noticeably elongated body that provides excellent camouflage on reed stalks. Females reach a body length of up to 10 mm, while males are usually slightly smaller and darker in color.
Details
Identification
Elongated abdomen; prosoma light brown with darker lateral stripes; distinctive line pattern on the abdomen; robust first pair of legs.
Social behavior
Solitary; exhibits complex visual courtship behavior during the mating season.
Diet
Small flying insects such as midges and flies, as well as leafhoppers that live in the reed beds.
Hunting strategy
Active visual hunter; stalks prey and pounces on it without using a capture web.
Spawning substrate
In silken retreats on reed stalks, often within the panicles or between leaf sheaths.
Overwintering
Usually overwinters in the subadult stage in protective silken retreats within old reed stalks or seed heads.
Ecology
Ecological role
Important predator in the wetland food web for regulating insect populations.
Natural predators
Insectivorous birds (e.g., reed warblers), ichneumon wasps, and larger spider species.
Competitor species
Other jumping spiders like Marpissa muscosa or various sac spiders (Clubionidae).
Ecosystem service
Contribution to biological pest control in riparian ecosystems.
Threats
Habitat loss due to drainage, intensive mowing of reed beds, and shore reinforcement.
Scientific profile
Profile
Distinguishing features
Characteristic is the unusually elongated and flattened body shape for a jumping spider, an adaptation to living on reed stalks. The anterior median eyes are greatly enlarged. The legs are sturdy, with the first pair often being slightly more robust.