Habitat associations of epigeal spiders in upland calcareous grassland landscapes: the importance for conservation

Lyons, Ashley and Ashton, P.A. and Powell, I and Oxbrough, A (2017) Habitat associations of epigeal spiders in upland calcareous grassland landscapes: the importance for conservation. Biodiversity and Conservation, 27 (5). pp. 1201-1219. ISSN 0960-3115

Text Lyons et al. 2018 - Post-Print.docx - Accepted Version Download (62kB)

Abstract

Upland calcareous grassland landscapes are typically comprised of a matrix of calcareous grassland, acid grassland and limestone heath plant communities. This matrix of habitats is produced by a combination of underlying geology, climate and management. These landscapes are typically managed through grazing, with management targeted to maintain particular plant communities in the calcareous grassland habitat, whilst patches of acid grassland and limestone heath are not targeted by conservation management.
The biodiversity value of acid grassland and limestone heath patches within the calcareous grassland matrix are unknown. This study provides the first assessment of their biodiversity value by examining aspects of epigeal spider diversity supported by these non-target habitat patches in comparison to calcareous grassland. Spiders were sampled in each habitat from April – August 2014 using pitfall traps across three upland regions in Great Britain.
Spider species assemblages were distinct between limestone heath and both grassland types. Distinction in species assemblages are likely due to differences in vegetation structure and microclimate e.g. humidity, degree of shade. Each habitat type supported several rare species (e.g. Jacksonella falconeri, Agyneta subtilis) revealing the contribution to spider fauna.
The distinct spider species assemblage and presence of rare species in limestone heath patches demonstrate their importance in the upland calcareous grassland matrix. This study highlights the value of monitoring biodiversity in non-target habitats within a habitat matrix alongside those that are actively targeted by management.

Item Type:	Article
Additional Information and Comments:	This is the author's manuscript of an article that was accepted for publication in Biodiversity and Conservation. The final publication is available from https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10531-017-1488-4
Faculty / Department:	Faculty of Human and Digital Sciences > School of Computer Science and the Environment
Depositing User:	Ashley Lyons
Date Deposited:	10 Apr 2019 09:15
Last Modified:	14 Jan 2025 09:45
URI:	https://hira.hope.ac.uk/id/eprint/2795

Actions (login required)

View Item