First predation report of Gecarcinus quadratus (Brachyura: Gecarcinidae) by Ancylometes bogotensis (Arachnida: Ctenidae) in Coiba Island, Panama

Researchers document the first recorded predation event of the land crab Gecarcinus quadratus by the wandering spider Ancylometes bogotensis on Coiba Island, Panama. This novel predator-prey interaction highlights the ecological role of spiders as top predators in tropical island ecosystems, potentially regulating invertebrate populations akin to larger mainland predators. The study suggests that marine subsidies may influence terrestrial food webs, though further research is needed to fully understand these dynamics.

Lombardo, R., Murcia-Moreno, D., & Gálvez, D. (2023). First predation report of Gecarcinus quadratus (Brachyura: Gecarcinidae) by Ancylometes bogotensis (Arachnida: Ctenidae) in Coiba Island, Panama. Acta Arachnologica, 72(2), 91–93. https://doi.org/10.2476/asjaa.72.91