Impact of Insecticides and Herbicides on the antioxidant and detoxification enzymes of social spider Stegodyphussarasinorum L., a non-target macroinvertebrate predator

Chemical insecticides have been the principal method of insect pest management in agroecosystems. Their effects on non-target organisms like beneficial insects and spiders have been varied and may affect the natural control of insect pests in the agroecosystems. In addition to mortality caused by insecticides, there are several subtle sublethal effects which also contribute long term effects on beneficial arthropods. Beneficial arthropods are more susceptible to chemical insecticides as against insect pests. In the present study, a social spider Stegodyphus sarasinorum found along the field margins of intensively managed agroecosystem was tested for novel mechanisms underlying its ability to tolerate high levels of pesticides. AChE activity was very high in topical exposure in all the agrochemicals tested, whereas in vial coating group only Glyphosate and Imidacloprid treatments produced significant AChE activity. GST and GSH activity was significantly high in Methomyl and Endosulfan in topical application and vial coating treatments. LPO levels were significantly lower in the treatments as compared to control. The study shows that this spider produces significantly high levels of metabolic enzymes, which may help in metabolic degradation of insecticide and herbicide.