Integrating taxonomy phylogeny host plant associations and gut microbial diversity in lynx spiders Araneae Oxyopidae of Kerala

Abstract

Lynx spiders (Oxyopidae) are widespread across various ecosystems in Kerala. This family, which does not create webs, comprises fast and visually adept hunters that use speed and precision to ambush their prey, typically found on flowers and leaves. Their distinctive spiny legs and hexagonally arranged eyes enhance their hunting prowess. This study investigates the diversity of Lynx spiders in Kerala. Given the highly cryptic nature of Oxyopids, a more dependable method that integrates classical and molecular taxonomy has been employed instead of traditional techniques. A total of thirty-one Oxyopid species across four genera (Oxyopes, Hamataliwa, Hamadruas, and Peucetia) have been identified in Kerala. Notably, this research introduces eleven new Oxyopes species: O. tigris, O. peetham, O. solea, O. ramulus, O. auris, O. hippocampus, O. circum, O. aquilae, O. kasaragodensis, O. thumboormuzhiensis, and O. patera. In addition, O. striagatus and O. shakilae are recorded for the first time in India. New species identified within the Hamataliwa genus include H. triangulus, H. quadrata, H. sagitta, H. crista, and H. rhombiae. DNA barcoding of the 31 species gives consensus sequences of 19 species only. The adaptability and hunting tactics of Oxyopids make them excellent subjects for evolutionary _and ecological studies. Th;;@\( evolutionary relationship of Oxyopids was determined by constructing phylogenetic trees usj DNA barcodes derived from the mitochondrial Cytochrome C Oxidase subunit I (CO1) marke. Four phylogenetic trees Neighbour Joining, Maximum Parsimony, Bayesian, and Maximum Likelihood - were created to establish more dependable taxonomic placements. As dominant predators of crop pests, Oxyopidae species&;v?romising roles in natural pest control. In this context, the study examined the host plant preferences of Lynx spiders across different ecosystems in Kerala, identificd 88 host plants from 30 families. The Poaceae family showcased the highest species richness and abundance, while Balsaminaceae exhibited the lowest. An observable preference for invasive plants over exotic and native varieties among lynx spiders was noted. Manipulating gut microbes in spiders could enhance Lynx spider populations for natural biocontrol methods, potentially decreasing the reliance on chemical pesticides for pest management. The gut microbial composition in spiders varies based on the ecosystems. The present study compares the gut microbial diversity of O. birmanicus from four different ecosystems, including an urban area, forest, dam side and paddy field and identifies 107 bacterial species, 162 genera, 88 families, 56 orders, and 27 classes belonging to 18 phyla. O. birmanicus from the dam side has higher gut microbial diversity, and the species from the urban area have the lowest. This study involves integrating four aspects in the Lynx spiders, & novel approach from Kerala, and has prospective uses in pest management in the state’s ecosystems.