How Do Spiders Help the Environment?

Spiders are beneficial predators and can help the environment in several important ways. The most common way spiders help the environment is by controlling the population of insect pests. In turn, this helps reduce the number of mosquitoes, flies, and other flying insects.

Besides controlling insect populations, spiders also help the ecosystem by providing food for other creatures. They serve as a source of sustenance for many birds and small mammals.

One of the biggest threats to spiders is habitat loss. This can include bare ground, loss of vegetation, and new parking lots. Those types of changes can expose spider nesting sites, making it easier for birds and small mammals to find them.

Another threat to spiders is global warming. Warming conditions can increase the rate of decomposition of dead plant matter. Keeping soil disturbance to a minimum can help spiders increase their diversity.

Conservation agriculture has been shown to help spider populations in southern Africa. Using fertilizers, post-harvest organic matter, and weeding are just some of the practices that conservation agriculture uses to keep spiders in the field.

Some species of spiders are dangerous. Brown recluses and black widows are two examples. It’s a good idea to stay away from killing adult spiders. Instead, keep them outside, where they can continue to do their jobs.

Research on spiders is important for nature conservation and medical research. These studies can also inspire a new generation of arachnologists to look at spiders in a new light.