Predation of Megaphobema mesomelas by a

Wandering Spider (Ctenidae)

Guy Tansley

I was intrigued to read the article by Ray Gabriel and Danniella Sherwood in the last BTS Journal: Vol. 35 (1). “Notes On A Predation Of Omothymus violaceopes (Abraham, 1924) (Araneae: Theraphosidae) by Pholcus phalangioides (Fuesslin, 1775) (Araneae: Pholcidae)” and I’d like to share some fascinating photographs sent to me from my good friend Rony Castro.

I first met Rony during a trip to Costa Rica when I was searching for tarantulas where he is a local wildlife guide with a keen interest in spiders. He helped me during my stay in the Monte Verde region where he lives and works and we have kept in touch over the years. He often sends me images of spiders and I help him identify them where I can.

I can’t recommend Rony highly enough if you’re ever lucky enough to travel to Costa Rica and visit the Monte Verde region and looking for a guide. His knowledge of the local wildlife is enviable and a friendlier person you’re unlikely to meet.

Check out his website here: http://www.monteverdenatural.com/

The photos show a large unidentified Wandering spider (Ctenidae) predating on a large juvenile / sub adult Megaphobema mesomelas. Rony came across this sight when on a night walk and was eager to share. It’s doubtful that the wandering spider took the tarantula from its burrow – more likely that the M. mesomelas was out in the open and strayed into the path of the Wandering spider adding more evidence to the idea that tarantulas are more nomadic than we first thought.

Whatever the scenario, I think you’ll agree it’s an amazing set of photographs!

© Rony Castro

© Rony Castro

© Rony Castro

This article first appeared in the Journal of the British Tarantula Society, 35 (3): 13-14 (2021).