The interplay of ecological and evolutionary processes in the spread of the invasive spider Mermessus trilobatus (Araneae: Linyphiidae) in Europe

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One of the most profound drivers of changes in biodiversity today are dispersal processes of species between ranges, e.g. continents, and subsequent invasion of habitats. Once established, the ability for rapid range expansion is a key trait that determines if a species becomes invasive. The pattern of accelerated spread during range expansions has been theoretically predicted and empirically observed for invasion processes of different species and is ascribed to both, ecological and evolutionary processes. In this project, we study the accelerated spread of Mermessus trilobatus in space and time, one of the most abundant alien spider in Europe. The project is divided into two mutually complementing sub-projects that focus on the one hand on simulation models that validate theoretical predictions, and on the other hand on empirical field work as well as laboratory tests that determine specific traits of Mermessus trilobatus. By this, we intend to disentangle the complex interplay of ecological and evolutionary processes and to identify the most relevant drivers and their interaction that determine the spread of Mermessus trilobatus in Europe. The alliance of a sound empirical database, model simulations and the practicability of laboratory tests for ecological and evolutionary processes provide a unique opportunity to understand the driving mechanisms of an invasion of an arthropod species. We further explore the applicability of the methods developed in this project for other invasive species, thus providing a general framework to study invasion patterns and especially accelerated spreads.