DefinePK

Research Objective

To evaluate the effect of selected feed sources (crickets, black soldier fly larva, and fruit flies) on the growth performance of huntsman spiders (Spariolenus aratta).

Methodology

The study used a completely randomized block design with 90 huntsman spiderlings reared for 14 weeks. Spiders were divided into three groups, each fed on one of the three feed sources (crickets, black soldier fly larva, or fruit flies), with 10 spiders per experimental unit and 3 replications. Growth was monitored by measuring leg span, abdominal length, and abdominal width weekly for six weeks. Data was analyzed using R software with ANOVA, post hoc tests (Least Significant Difference - LSD), and Pearson correlation.

Methodology Flowchart

                        graph TD
    A[Spiderling Rearing] --> B[Data Collection: Leg Span, Abdominal Length, Abdominal Width];
    B --> C[Data Analysis: ANOVA, LSD, Correlation];
    C --> D[Determine Growth Performance based on Feed Source];
    D --> E[Conclusion on Best Feed Source];                    

Discussion

The study indicates that crickets are the most effective feed source for the growth of huntsman spiderlings among the tested options. The size of the prey is important for spiderlings, and they can adapt to different prey sizes as they grow. The findings support the potential of huntsman spiders as biological control agents and a food/feed source.

Key Findings

Spiders fed on crickets showed significantly higher growth rates in terms of leg span, abdominal length, and abdominal width compared to those fed on black soldier fly larva and fruit flies. There was a positive association between feed and growth in leg span, abdominal length, and abdominal width. Crickets resulted in the highest mean growth: 0.46cm for leg span, 0.34cm for abdominal length, and 0.16cm for abdominal width.

Conclusion

Crickets are the best feed source for promoting leg and abdominal growth in huntsman spiderlings. Huntsman spiders show potential as biological control agents due to their insectivorous diet, which can reduce the need for pesticides in agriculture.

Fact Check

* The study involved 90 spiderlings. (Confirmed in text: "a total of 90 spiders under observation")
* Spiders were fed on crickets, black soldier fly larva, and fruit flies. (Confirmed in text: "fed on three feed sources: crickets, black soldier fly and fruit flies.")
* Spiders fed on crickets had significantly higher growth rates (P<0.05). (Confirmed in text: "spiders fed on crickets had significantly (P0.05) higher growth rate")

Mind Map