Die ökologische Bedeutung der Spinnen in Forst-Ökosystemen,eine Literaturzusammenstellung

The most important literature on the ecological importance of spiders for forest ecosystems was compiled and analyzed. Forest spiders normally live in densities of 50 to 200 individuals/m² and prey, at least in Europe, predominantly on small soft-bodied insects (Diptera and Collembola mainly). However, bigger insects, including various forest pests, are also found in their prey. According to the present stand of knowledge the spiders of the soil surface seem to be important insect predators, whereas the ecological importance of spiders living on the trees is still controversial.