Lycosidae sp. (Araneae: Lycosidae): comportamento maternal e preferências ecológicas de uma nova espécie do Cerrado

Abstract

The Cerrado is a highly diverse biome that harbors a rich arthropod fauna, including representatives of the family Lycosidae (Araneae). The structural heterogeneity of its different vegetation types such as savanna, forest, and grassland formations can directly influence the distribution and behavior of these organisms. This study analyzes a new Lycosidae species recorded in the Cerrado and investigates its preference for distinct vegetation fragments, as well as aspects of maternal and reproductive behavior. Sampling was conducted over the course of one year, from august 2023 to july 2024, using drift fence-pitfall traps with buckets arranged in a “Y” configuration. Collections took place in two areas with contrasting vegetation formations: Mesophytic Semideciduous Forest and Cerrado sensu stricto, both located at the Fazenda Experimental do Glória, part of the Universidade Federal de Uberlândia, Minas Gerais, Brazil. Data on species abundance were recorded, along with detailed behavioral descriptions related to maternal care and reproduction. Results indicate a preference for the Mesophytic Semideciduous Forest, an environment with greater structural complexity, particularly due to the presence of leaf litter. Maternal care exhibited behavioral plasticity, though patterns typical of the family were observed, including oviposition sac transport and post-hatching offspring care. This study expands current knowledge of Lycosidae sp. ecology and provides relevant insights into the biodiversity of the Cerrado, highlighting the importance of different vegetation formations for the occurrence and reproductive success of this new species.