Summary details for Trichopterna cito (O.P.-Cambridge, 1872)

Distribution

The species has been recorded from Colne Point, North Essex; Sandwich, East Kent; and Rye Harbour, East Sussex, all since 1956. It is widespread in north-western and central Europe and has been recorded in the Balkans and Russia.

Habitat and ecology

The spider has been found among moss and grass on old sand dunes and among sparse vegetation on sandy shingle. Both sexes have been found as adults in February, May and October, females also in June and a male in August.

Status

Recorded from only three locations since 1992. The spider’s area of occupancy appears to have declined by 50% from six hectads before 1992 to just three since that date. Apparently numerous at all of the sites, at Colne Point extensive fieldwork in the early 1990s located only three males in one small area, and in 2004 only two males, despite the use of pitfall trapping.

Threats

Public recreation can easily destroy the fragile vegetation of dunes and shingle. Outside nature reserves, this habitat is often the site of developments such as golf courses, caravan parks and chalets. Golf courses at Sandwich Dunes with their associated roads, buildings, drains, re-profiling and reseeding, have caused some damage to this fine dune system.

Management and conservation

Protect dune sites from public pressure, particularly the use of off-road vehicles. Text based on Dawson, I.K., Harvey, P.R., Merrett, P. & Russell-Smith, A.R. (in prep.).