Population dynamics, age structure and sex ratio of the bromeliad-dwelling jumping spider, Psecas chapoda (Salticidae)

In this study, the population fluctuations, phenology and sex ratio of the bromeliad-dwelling jumping spider Psecas chapoda were investigated in an area of semi-deciduous forest in south-eastern Brazil. Psecas chapoda occurred and reproduced on Bromelia balansae (Bromeliaceae) throughout the year. The number of egg sacs increased at the beginning of the rainy season ( September to December), but the population size and phenology were stable over time and correlated weakly with rainfall and temperature. The principal factor affecting the dynamics of P. chapoda was the blooming of B. balansae, which expelled spiders because of the drastic change in plant architecture. Male spiders were more frequent than females during the juvenile phase, whereas females were more frequent than males during the subadult and adult phases, suggesting a sex ratio that favoured males. The biotic and abiotic factors that influence the population dynamics and sex-dependent vulnerability determination are discussed.