Molecular evidence for dietary selectivity and pest suppression potential in an epigeal spider community in winter wheat

► We determined the predatory habits of epigeal spiders in winter wheat via PCR. ► The spiders largely sustain themselves on Collembola and prey on scarce aphids. ► Diptera and Hymenoptera were underutilized in relation to their availability. ► The best predictor of Collembola predation was web size. ► Aphid predation frequencies are indicative of their biological control potential.