Assessing spider community structure and ecological dynamics across urban and natural environments

Abstract

This study explores the diversity and distribution of spider populations across urban and natural-semi natural habitats in Gongju-si, South Korea. This study aims to investigate the ecological dynamics of spider populations across different habitat types and assess their implications for urban planning, particularly in terms of maintaining biodiversity through habitat heterogeneity and informed urban development strategies. Employing methodologies such as sweeping, manual collection, and pit-fall traps, the research identifies 128 spider species and evaluates alpha and beta diversity, nestedness, and species interactions using advanced statistical and ecological tools. The findings indicate significant variations in spider diversity across different habitats, with urban areas exhibiting notable biodiversity despite human influences. Natural habitats, especially forests, demonstrate higher biodiversity and more intricate species interactions. Nestedness analysis reveals distinct community structures across habitats, while association rule learning highlights complex interspecies relationships. The study underscores the importance of maintaining habitat heterogeneity and incorporating ecological principles in urban planning to support biodiversity. It offers valuable insights into the roles of various habitats in ecological networks, emphasizing the necessity for balanced urban development and effective conservation strategies.