RELATIVE ABUNDANCE AND DISTRIBUTION OF THE TRUE SPIDER FAMILIES IN ASSUIT GOVERNORATE

Survey and distribution of true spiders were studied on different fruit trees (citrus, guava, grapes and apple orchards), in Al-Azhar University and Banymore localities, Assuit Governorate during two successive years (2007/2008-2008/2009). Population of spiders were estimated monthly during the period of study to know their distribution allover the year. Data showed that twenty-two families, belonging to sub-order labidognatha distributed in Al-Azhar University and Banymore localities, Assuit Governorate during two successive years. Data indicated that the members of families Gnaphosidae, Lycosidae, Miturgidae, Philodromidae, Salticidae, Theridiidae and Thomisidae were found during the two years (2007/2008 and 2008/2009) in the two localities with highly total individuals, population density and frequency of occurrence. While, the members of families Dictynidae, Hersiliidae, Pholicidae and Scytodidae were found in moderate numbers, population density and frequency of occurrence. Whereas, the other families of spiders were recorded in lowest numbers, population densities and frequencies of occurrence.