Life cycle patterns in Wisconsin spiders

Abstract

Five life cycle patterns in spiders are described and examples given. The most common pattern, maturation and mating in spring and early summer, is elaborated with a detailed description of the seasonal development of Philodromus cespitum. The four other patterns are exemplified by the following southeastern Wisconsin species: Argiope trifasciata--fall mating, Centromerus sylvaticus-- winter mating, Trochosa terricola--two mating seasons, and Pholcus phalangioides--year round mating.