This report describes the status of Dolomedes plantarius on Redgrave and Lopham Fen NNR at the annual July census, in 1996. Changes in the status of the two populations on the Fen are made by comparison with July census data from the previous five years. Comparisons over the whole of this period are based on a population index which allows for changes in the sample of pools censused (Smith 1995). Brief description is also given of casual observations on D. plantarius during August and September. Management work on the spider pools undertaken by the Suffolk Wildlife Trust (SWT) and changes in the water table during 1996 are also described.
A printed copy of this report is available from our Enquiry Service. Tel: 0845 600 3078 Email: enquiries@naturalengland.org.uk