Home22 May 2026
Wednesday 19 August, at 1:00 pm
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Spiders are the dominant, most abundant, and most diverse natural enemies in agroecosystems. They are generalist predators of insect pests, comprising many different functional groups. Spiders contribute economically to crop protection by reducing pest invertebrate numbers both by direct consumption, and non-consumptive effects. Despite this, few studies on spider biodiversity in crop systems have been completed, particularly in Aotearoa New Zealand.
In this talk, Dr Nicola Sullivan will present research from her PhD, including (1) the first population survey of spiders in Aotearoa New Zealand kiwifruit orchards; (2) lab bioassays undertaken to measure the prey consumption rates of three spider species (Maratus griseus, Socca pustulosa and Badumna longinqua) found in Aotearoa New Zealand kiwifruit orchards, on two economically important kiwifruit insect pests (Scolypopa australis and Ctenopseustis obliquana); (3) the prey-capture ability of these spiders on these pests under vibrational disturbance (applied biotremology).
About the presenter
Dr Nicola Sullivan is an an entomologist in the Ecological Pest Management Group of the Bioeconomy Science Institute. She works on integrated pest management projects including developing a mealybug pheromone lure, and investigating biotremology of the passionvine hopper.
In 2026, Nicola successfully defended her PhD on spider biodiversity in crop ecosystems, supported by a Food Transitions 2050 scholarship through Lincoln University, Plant & Food Research, and Bioprotection Aotearoa. She is an interviewer for the Scigest podcast and working group lead for the Lincoln site for the ‘TONO in the regions’ initiative.
Learn more about Nicola’s research and publications >>
More Information
Research: Learn more about Nicola’s aligned doctoral research with Bioprotection Aotearoa.
About Rangahau Rising Webinar Series
Rangahau Rising is a webinar series showcasing emerging researchers who are asking bold questions and exploring new directions in bioprotection. Each session features an early career researcher sharing their journey, ideas, and in-progress work across a range of bioprotection topics.