University of Georgia study finds Joro spiders do not outcompete native species

A study from the University of Georgia suggests that invasive Joro spiders may not be outcompeting native orb weavers for food resources. Researchers analyzed the stomach contents of over 200 Joro spiders and 140 native orb weavers across 33 sites in Georgia and South Carolina.

The findings indicate that while there is some overlap, the diets differ significantly. Joro spiders prey on a wider variety of insects, including 26 species that native spiders do not eat, such as aphids and leafhoppers. The study found that native spider diets remained consistent regardless of the presence of Joro spiders, suggesting that the invasive species is not making it harder for local populations to find food.