The Beetle Crab Spiders Mystaria Simon, 1895, of South Africa: Observations and benefits of "Hang Feeding" (Araneae: Thomisidae)

The crab spider family (Thomisidae) represents a highly diverse group of arachnids characterised by unique feeding behaviours. Crab spiders frequently capture prey that is equal to, or several times, larger than, their body size. Given that their prey is often—although not always—a honeybee caught in mid-flight, it is evident that these spiders possess a potent toxin capable of immediately subduing their targets. Currently, little is known about the feeding behaviour of the African genus Mystaria Simon, 1895. This paper provides information on prey size and feeding methodologies for select Mystaria species, along with a discussion of the possible advantages of this behaviour.