Daddy Long Neck

Cynthia May

2 min read

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23-01-2025

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The "Daddy Long Legs" moniker conjures up images of a spindly, creepy crawly, often associated with myths and misconceptions. But what exactly is a daddy long legs? The answer, surprisingly, depends on what you mean. The term is applied to two entirely different groups of creatures: harvestmen (order Opiliones) and cellar spiders (family Pholcidae). Let's clear up the confusion.

Harvestmen: Not Spiders at All!

The arachnids most often called "daddy long legs" are actually harvestmen, sometimes called harvest spiders. However, they are not spiders. While both belong to the class Arachnida, harvestmen differ significantly:

• Single body segment: Unlike spiders with two body segments (cephalothorax and abdomen), harvestmen possess a single fused body segment.
• No venom glands: Contrary to popular belief, harvestmen lack venom glands and are completely harmless to humans. They are scavengers, feeding on dead insects and decaying plant matter.
• Two eyes: While many spiders have eight eyes, harvestmen typically have two, though some species may have none.
• Extremely long legs: This is their most distinguishing characteristic, often several times longer than their body.

Cellar Spiders: The Other "Daddy Long Legs"

The second creature commonly known as a "daddy long legs" is the cellar spider (family Pholcidae). These are spiders, but they are small and often found in dark, damp places like cellars and basements.

• Venomous, but harmless to humans: Cellar spiders do possess venom, used to subdue their prey (mostly small insects). However, their venom is too weak to affect humans, rendering them harmless. The myth of their potent venom is simply untrue.
• Eight legs: Like all spiders, cellar spiders have eight legs.
• Irregular web structure: Their webs are often messy and irregular, unlike the meticulously crafted webs of many other spiders.

Debunking the Myths

The most pervasive myths surrounding daddy long legs center around their supposed venom and toxicity. These are entirely false. Neither harvestmen nor cellar spiders pose any threat to human health. Their bite, even if they could bite, is completely inconsequential.

Conclusion: A Case of Misidentification

The term "daddy long legs" is a prime example of how common names can be misleading. While both harvestmen and cellar spiders are fascinating creatures, it's crucial to understand their distinct characteristics and debunk the pervasive myths that surround them. So next time you encounter one of these eight-legged wanderers, remember that it's far more likely to be a harmless scavenger than a venomous menace.