Phenology of the Himalayan Wolf Spider, Pardosa flavisterna Caporiacco, 1935 (Araneae: Lycosidae) in the Agroecosystems of Kashmir, India

Phenology of the wolf spider, Pardosa flavisterna , was studied. This species is an abundant arthropod predator in the agroecosystems of Kashmir valley and is restricted to some parts of India and Pakistan only. The life cycle pattern was deduced via sampling done by manual searching, pitfall trapping in 24 different agricultural fields, and individuals reared under laboratory conditions. Males and females underwent seven moultings to mature and showed a mean carapace width (± SEM) of 2.594 mm (± 0.026) n = 17, and 2.470 mm (± 0.040) n = 14, respectively, at maturity. Investigation of the monthly catches and outcome of the measurement of their carapace width indicated an annual-biannual life cycle of P. flavisterna having stenochronous occurrence, reproducing in spring and summer. Females produce two egg sacs. Individuals of the first brood overwinter as subadults, while the second brood overwinters as juveniles. The first brood matured in the upcoming spring, while the second brood matured the next spring after growing throughout the year. The mean clutch size (± SEM) is 68.24 (± 4.57), n = 122, range = 41–103 eggs. Weather parameters had an impact on the number of catches, with temperature showing a positive correlation, and rainfall and humidity showing a negative relationship with the number of individuals caught. A minimum of two size classes were recorded throughout the year as a result of this life cycle pattern.