Thesis defence Yuting Dong: effects on reproduction in a false widow spider

On 22 October 2024 NIOO researcher Yuting Dong will defend her PhD thesis, titled "The effect of biotic and abiotic factors on reproduction in a false widow spider". Her promotor is NIOO director Wim van der Putten. Her co-promotors are Rieta Gols (Wageningen University), Jeff Harvey & Melissah Rowe.

If individuals fail to reproduce, population faces extinction. Reproduction is important for all animals, but studies about reproduction in spiders are not abundant. Yuting's research focused on the reproduction of a false widow spider, Steatoda grossa. This spider is widespread and often found near human residences. She looked at how factors like competition between males, mating behaviours, food availability, climate change and climate extremes - especially heatwaves - affect their reproduction.

This thesis enhances our understanding of spider reproductive biology and ecology. Climate change and climate extremes are posing threats to many organisms, leading to detrimental impacts on biodiversity. As the most abundant predator of invertebrates, spiders are often overlooked in biodiversity conservation efforts. It is important to study the reproduction on a broader range of high-trophic-level animals, which provides a more comprehensive understanding of ecological resilience and the effects of climate change on biodiversity.

The defence ceremony will take place in the Auditorium of Omnia, at the campus of Wageningen University & Research.