Phalangiidae

Common Name

Harvestmen or Daddy Longlegs

Overview

Phalangiidae is a family within the order Opiliones, commonly known as harvestmen or daddy longlegs. Unlike spiders, harvestmen have a fused body segment and are known for their long, slender legs.

Taxonomy

• Kingdom: Animalia
• Phylum: Arthropoda
• Class: Arachnida
• Order: Opiliones
• Family: Phalangiidae

Key Characteristics

• Body Structure: Single body segment appears fused; lacks distinct separation between cephalothorax and abdomen.
• Legs: Extremely long and thin, much longer than body.
• Eyes: Simple eyes mounted on a small turret-like structure called an ocularium.
• Coloration: Often drably colored, with shades of brown or gray.

Life Cycle

• Eggs: Laid in the soil or under debris.
• Nymph Stages: Undergo several molts before reaching adulthood.
• Adults: Generally live for one year, depending on environmental conditions.

Behavior and Ecology

• Diet: Omnivorous; consumes a variety of small invertebrates, plant material, and fungi.
• Habitat: Found in diverse habitats such as forests, meadows, caves, and human dwellings.
• Defensive Behavior: May produce a foul-smelling secretion or drop legs to escape predators.

Notable Species

• Phalangium opilio: One of the most widespread species globally, commonly found in Europe and North America.

Conservation

Typically not of conservation concern; widely distributed and adaptable to different environments.

Significance to Humans

• Agricultural Role: Known to control pest populations.
• Myths: Often mistaken for more venomous arachnids, but are harmless to humans.

Fun Facts

• Leg Sensory Function: Their legs are not only for movement but are also covered with sensory hairs.
• False Venom Myth: Contrary to popular belief, harvestmen do not possess venom glands.
• Leg Renewal: If a leg is lost, it will not regenerate, unlike some other arachnids.
• Silent Communication: Communicate through body vibrations, rather than sound or pheromones.