Ambush predatory behaviour of Phaeacius malayensis and Phaeacius sp. indet., spartaeine jumping spiders (Araneae: Salticidae) from tropical Asia

How jumping spiders from the spartaeine genus Phaeacius catch prey and use silk is considered. Behavioural data are provided for the first time for Phaeacius malayensis from Singapore and new behavioural data are given for Phaeacius sp. indet. from Sri Lanka. Both species are ambush predators and particulary proficient at catching moths and salticids. The behaviour of Phaeacius is compared to that of other studied spartaeines and the results of this study are discussed in relation to salticid evolution.