Opilionids are commonly called daddy-long-legs and harvestmen, but many people often mistake pholcid spiders for daddy-long-legs. Most species of opilionids look similar to pholcid spiders, yet there are many differences.
Misconceptions
True daddy-long-legs are in the Arachnid animal family, but are not in the Araneae order like spiders. They are actually in their own order called Opiliones.
Appearance
Opilionids have only one pill-like body section. They are usually brown in color and have just two eyes. Their legs are usually quite long, but there are some with short legs as well.
Characteristics
Unlike the pholcid spider, opilionids have no venom and cannot produce silk to make webs.
Habitat
Most species of daddy-long-legs prefer moist environments, although some live in the dessert. They are usually found under logs and rocks. The long-legged spiders that you're likely to find in your basement are actually the pholcid spiders.
Diet
Most opilionids feed primarily on decomposing plant and animal matter, although they are also opportunistic hunters and will feed on small bugs if given the chance.
Myths
Many people believe that daddy-long-legs are very venomous and could kill a human if their fangs could pierce the skin. There is absolutely no evidence to support this claim for either the opilionid or the pholcid spider.
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