What Are Daddy Long Legs?
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 coul
