Various Aspects of the Biology ofAgelena consociataDenis when Bred in the Laboratory

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Abstract
SYNOPSIS. Agelena consociata Denis, which Chauvin discovered in Gabon, when put in a laboratory, weaves nests which are 2 m2 and consist of three different parts: shelters, a web, and vertical threads used as a snare. The snare stops insects in their flight and causes them to fall into the web which the spiders use as their hunting field. These spiders have a nocturnal activity which can be divided into two successive periods: a first stage during which the spiders weave vertical threads, and a second stage of general activity. Hunting and eating are done in common. These activities and the relations between the individuals which they involve, show in a definite way the social characteristics of these spiders. Eating favors an exchange of chemical substance between the individuals, but we have not been able to determine the exact part played by such an exchange. As study proceeds, we shall try to make clear the relationships between the individuals inside the society. We shall analyze group effects on physiology and behavior, comparing them to those found for Agelena labyrinthica.

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