Abstract

Dolomedes plantarius (Clerck, 1757) is becoming another iconic species within European conservation programmes. It is commonly accepted that the densest populations of this species are situated in Western Europe and many records confirm this. At the same time Eastern European populations are often not taken into account when assessing future dynamics of species distribution due to climate change. Here we provide data about D. plantarius in Belarus, which includes both an extensive literature survey and our own records in different parts of the country. The evidence provided suggest that Belarus is currently a large refugium for the fen raft spider, which was found during the last 30 years practically everywhere where specialists were interested in its study. We suggest that involvement of international research teams in studies of D. plantarius in Belarus will ensure the most efficient population management in Europe.