ITOD Project Update: From Occurrence Records to Photographic Evidence Assessment (October 27, 2026)

Posted by
  ITOD Project Update: From Occurrence Records to Photographic Evidence Assessment International Tarantula Occurrence Database (ITOD) — Brachypelma Pilot Study The International Tarantula Occurrence Database (ITOD) has reached another important milestone in the development of its standardized analytical framework. Following the initial compilation, taxonomic reconciliation, and geographic quality assessment of the Brachypelma pilot dataset, I have now completed the first preliminary photographic evidence assessment of selected observations. This phase represents a transition from organizing occurrence records to evaluating the biological evidence supporting their identifications. Progress Since the Previous Update The Brachypelma pilot currently contains 1,166 iNaturalist observations , representing all eight recognized species in the genus and contributions from 708 observers. During the initial assessment, 50 observations were identified as containing one or mor...

Note on the introduced Asian mud-dauber wasp Sceliphron curvatum (F. Smith, 1870) and its prey in Belgium

Posted by

 




Note on the introduced Asian mud-dauber wasp Sceliphron curvatum (F. Smith, 1870) and its prey in Belgium

Abstract
This note documents the first observations of the prey of Sceliphron curvatum (F. Smith, 1870) (Hymenoptera: Sphecidae) in Belgium, recorded in the municipality of Jette (Brussels-Capital Region). The analysis of the paralyzed prey (n = 39) revealed the presence of nine spider species belonging to five families: Anyphaenidae, Araneidae, Philodromidae, Salticidae and Thomisidae. The family Araneidae dominates the trophic spectrum, represented mainly by juveniles of Araneus diadematus (Clerck, 1757). Two relatively rare species or species with a restricted regional distribution were identified: Macaroeris nidicolens (Walckenaer, 1802) (Salticidae) and Philodromus buxi (Simon, 1884) (Philodromidae). These data indicate opportunistic exploitation of spiders associated with upper (vegetation) layers and adaptation to anthropized habitats. The lack of marked trophic specialization in S. curvatum suggests a low risk of significant impact on native spider populations in Belgium. However, further quantitative studies are needed to assess potential competitive interactions with native arthropod predators. 

Henrard, Arnaud & Drumont, Hugo & Drumont, Alain. (2025). Note on the introduced Asian mud-dauber wasp Sceliphron curvatum (F. Smith, 1870) and its prey in Belgium. 40. Journal of the Belgian Arachnological Society Volume 40 (1) 2025