The distribution and population status of Nesiergus insulanus (Araneae: Theraphosidae: Ischnocolinae) on Frégate Island, Seychelles

Loading...
Thumbnail Image

Date

Authors

Canning, Gregory
Reilly, Brian Kevin
Dippenaar-Schoeman, Anna S. (Anna Sophia), 1948-

Journal Title

Journal ISSN

Volume Title

Publisher

British Arachnological Society

Abstract

The theraphosid Nesiergus insulanus is a member of a genus endemic to the Seychelles archipelago. Very little is known about the finer-scale distribution, density, and total population size of the species, knowledge of which is essential for conservation purposes. We used transect sampling to estimate these variables on Frégate Island. We show that the species is widely distributed, but geographically restricted as a result of fragmentation due to human activity. Where found, densities can be very high (>100 m-2). The total population on the island was estimated to be well over 100,000, although limitations to dispersal ability may be of conservation concern.

Description

Keywords

Theraphosid, Nesiergus insulanus, Fregate Island

Sustainable Development Goals

Citation

Canning, G, Reilly, BK & Dippenaar-Schoeman, AS 2014, 'The distribution and population status of Nesiergus insulanus (Araneae: Theraphosidae: Ischnocolinae) on Frégate Island, Seychelles', Arachnology, vol. 16, no. 4, pp. 116-121.