Long-jawed Orb Weavers
Tetragnathidae
Classification
- Phylum: Arthropoda
- Subphylum: Chelicerata
- Class: Arachnida
- Order: Araneae
- Infraorder: Araneomorphae
- Family: Tetragnathidae
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Tetragnathidae: //ˌtɛtrəɡˈnæθɪˌdiː//
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Images
Summary
Tetragnathidae, commonly known as long-jawed orb weavers, is a family of spiders characterized by their elongated bodies and chelicerae. They construct unique orb webs and are primarily found in vegetative areas near water. Their extended jaw-like structures make them distinctive within the Araneomorphae infraorder.
Physical Characteristics
Long-jawed orb weavers have elongated bodies, thin builds, and disproportionately long chelicerae compared to other orb weavers. They commonly exhibit long legs which are extended while at rest, often clinging lengthwise along twigs or blades of grass with their short third pair of legs.
Identification Tips
When identifying long-jawed orb weavers, look for their long, slender legs and notably elongated chelicerae. They often resemble other orb weavers but differentiate themselves by the length of their jaws and their resting posture on vegetation.
Habitat
These spiders are commonly found in long vegetation near water sources, often constructing their webs among the plants.
Distribution
Primarily found throughout the United States and Southern Canada.
Diet
Their diet consists mainly of insects.
Life Cycle
Specific details about the life cycle were not provided, but generally, orb-weaving spiders undergo a complete metamorphosis: egg, juvenile, and adult stages.
Reproduction
Details on reproduction were not specifically mentioned, but like many spiders, reproduction typically occurs via mating, followed by female oviposition.
Ecosystem Role
Long-jawed orb weavers play a role as predators in their ecosystems, helping to control insect populations.
Health Concerns
While these spiders may bite if threatened, their bites are not harmful to humans. It is recommended to observe them rather than handle them.
Evolution
The family Tetragnathidae was first described by Franz Anton Menge in 1866, indicating its long-standing recognition in arachnology.
Similar Taxa
Misconceptions
It is a common misconception that the appendages next to their jaws are additional jaws; they are actually pedipalps used for sensing and mating.
Tags
- Tetragnathidae
- Long-jawed Orb Weavers
- Arachnology
- Spider Identification
- Insect Predators