Opiliones

Definition

An order of arachnids commonly known as harvestmen, characterized by their small body size and extremely long legs, which are often much longer than their body.

Etymology

From Latin 'opilio', meaning 'shepherd', referring to their long legs which resemble the staff of a shepherd.

Example

Opiliones are often mistaken for spiders, but they can be distinguished by their fused body regions and singular segment appearance.

Synonyms

• Harvestmen
• Daddy longlegs

Related Terms

• Arachnids
• Scorpions
• Spiders
• Solifugae

Usage Notes

Despite their appearance, Opiliones do not have venom glands or silk-producing abilities, unlike true spiders. They are scavengers and predators of small insects and detritus.