Spider Diversity and Ecological Health in an Educational Landscape: Insights from College Campus
Yadav T. L. *
Department of Zoology, Sangola Mahavidyalaya, Sangola, Dist.- Solapur (MS), India and Affiliated to Punyashlok Ahilyadevi Holkar Solapur University, Solapur (MS), India.
Lokhande P. S.
Department of Zoology, Sangola Mahavidyalaya, Sangola, Dist.- Solapur (MS), India and Affiliated to Punyashlok Ahilyadevi Holkar Solapur University, Solapur (MS), India.
Kamble V. S.
Department of Zoology, Sangola Mahavidyalaya, Sangola, Dist.- Solapur (MS), India and Affiliated to Punyashlok Ahilyadevi Holkar Solapur University, Solapur (MS), India.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Spiders (Order: Araneae) are among the most diverse and ecologically significant arthropods, occupying nearly every terrestrial habitat and playing a vital role in ecosystem functioning as both predators and prey. India, recognised as a megadiverse country, harbours a rich and varied arachnid fauna. Indian college campuses, with their green cover and semi-natural habitats, act as reservoirs of biodiversity. The present study was conducted at the Sangola College Campus, Solapur, to assess spider diversity. A three-month survey (June–August 2025) at the college campus documented 17 entries, of which 16 were true spiders (Order Araneae) across 13 families. The fauna included ground-dwelling and arboreal species, with dominant families such as Lycosidae, Cheiracanthiidae, Sparassidae, and Oxyopidae, and genera like Rabidosa, Trochosa, and Oxyopes salticus. A, Orbweavers (Araneidae, Tetragnathidae) and sac spiders (Cheiracanthiidae) highlighted vegetation complexity. These findings underscore spiders’ role in pest regulation and ecosystem balance, establishing a baseline for biodiversity monitoring and emphasising the value of campuses as living laboratories for conservation and ecological education.
Keywords: Diversity, ecology, spider, educational landscape, sangola, campus