The neonicotinoid imidacloprid impairs the predatory performance and functional response of the jumping spider Helpis minitabunda (Araneae, Salticidae)

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  The neonicotinoid imidacloprid impairs the predatory performance and functional response of the jumping spider Helpis minitabunda (Araneae, Salticidae) Abstract The neonicotinoid imidacloprid can cause lethal and sublethal effects in non-target organisms, including impaired behavior, reduced fertility, disrupted locomotion, and reduced predatory performance in arthropods. Spiders are among the most abundant arthropod predators in terrestrial ecosystems, including agricultural ecosystems, yet the effects of neonicotinoids on the predatory function of jumping spiders remain poorly understood. The functional response of a predator describes how predation rates change with prey density and is key to understanding predator–prey dynamics. We tested whether acute exposure to a commercial formulation of imidacloprid at field-recommended concentrations alters the functional response of the Aussie bronze jumping spider, Helpis minitabunda (L. Koch, 1880). We compared the predation of treat...

Successful Management of Intravascular Hemolysis Caused by Systemic Loxoscelism With Antivenom: A Case Report

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Successful Management of Intravascular Hemolysis Caused by Systemic Loxoscelism With Antivenom: A Case Report

Abstract

Spider bites, particularly from Loxosceles species, pose a public health concern in Mexico. A case of systemic loxoscelism in a 33-year-old woman who developed acute intravascular hemolysis is presented. The patient was successfully treated with blood transfusions and Reclusmyn, a Mexican antivenom. Her clinical and laboratory improvement supports the therapeutic value of antivenom in severe envenomation. This case highlights the importance of early suspicion, recognition, and targeted treatment to prevent complications and improve outcomes.

Guadarrama-Fernández C, Longino J A, Villalba-Ríos N, et al. (September 05, 2025) Successful Management of Intravascular Hemolysis Caused by Systemic Loxoscelism With Antivenom: A Case Report. Cureus 17(9): e91678. doi:10.7759/cureus.91678