Resource Management in the Orb‐Weaving Spider Zygiella x‐notata: I. Influence of Spider Behaviour and Available Prey

Abstract Management of resource exploitation by the orb‐weaving spider Zygiella x‐notata was investigated in relation to available prey. Prey capture is studied according to prey type (cricket or fly), and the spider's behaviour (waiting without prey or consuming other prey), at the moment when a prey item was placed onto the web. Characteristics of the spider's exploitation of the previous item (feeding time, and quantities ingested) were analysed according to the type and quantity of prey presented, (1 or 2 items at 1‐h intervals). Capture time did not vary in relation to prey type, nor spider activity. However, duration and quantities of certain behavioural components (biting and wrapping) did vary according to prey type and the spider's behaviour, at the moment of presentation of prey. Whatever the type of prey received, if the first item consumed was a cricket, the spiders reduced time spent feeding on this prey without any decrease in the quantities ingested.