Terrestrial Spider Response to Logjam Mediated Influences

Abstract

Spiders in riparian zones, or the areas adjacent to streams, are known to increase in population density with increased aquatic insect emergence (Kato et al. 2003). Logjams, or woody accumulations in streams, can retain organic materials and increase habitat complexity, thus increasing macroinvertebrate production (Wallace et al. 1995). This study looked at whether increased aquatic insect emergence found at a logjam would increase nearby spider density.