In Pisaura mirabilis, opposites might attract

Animal personalities - consistent behavioral tendencies - can play an important role in mating decisions. This study tests the idea that pairings of spiders of the nuptial feeding species Pisaura mirabilis may occur depending on the aggressiveness and exploration levels of the interacting sexes.

Results show that males and females show consistent differences in behavior and highlight sex-specific patterns: females were more aggressive, males more explorative. These underlying personality traits did not affect mating success, suggesting lack of effects on male courtship and female mate choice. Yet, less explorative females and most explorative males experienced longer copulations, a trait important for enhancing reproductive outcome in this species. These reproductive benefits may potentially promote disassortative pairings.

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