The terms "cellar spider" and "daddy long legs" are often used interchangeably, leading to considerable confusion. However, these names actually refer to two distinct groups of arachnids with significant differences. Let's delve into the specifics to clear up this common misconception.
What is a Cellar Spider?
Cellar spiders, belonging to the family Pholcidae, are small, delicate spiders commonly found in dark, damp places like cellars, basements, and sheds – hence their name. They are easily recognizable by their long, thin legs and small bodies. They often build messy, irregular webs in corners and crevices. While their appearance may be unsettling to some, cellar spiders are generally harmless to humans. Their venom, while present, is considered too weak to cause significant harm to people. They are primarily nocturnal hunters, feeding on other insects they trap in their webs.
What do cellar spiders eat?
Cellar spiders primarily feed on other insects, such as flies, mosquitoes, and other small invertebrates that get entangled in their webs. They are opportunistic feeders, consuming whatever prey they can capture.
Are cellar spiders poisonous?
Yes, cellar spiders possess venom, but their bite is generally considered harmless to humans. Their venom is too weak to penetrate human skin and cause any noticeable effects. Most people won't even feel a bite.
What is a Daddy Long Legs?
The term "daddy long legs" is often incorrectly applied to cellar spiders. However, true daddy long legs belong to the order Opiliones, also known as harvestmen. These arachnids are easily distinguished from spiders by their single body segment (spiders have two – a cephalothorax and an abdomen) and a lack of venom glands. They are usually larger than cellar spiders and have much shorter, thicker legs in proportion to their bodies. Daddy long legs don't spin webs; instead, they are scavengers, feeding on dead insects and decaying organic matter.
Do daddy long legs have venom?
No, harvestmen (daddy long legs) do not have venom glands. They are entirely harmless to humans.
Do daddy long legs bite?
While daddy long legs are often described as having a “bite,” it's more accurate to describe it as a pinching action with their mouthparts. They lack venom and cannot inflict a poisonous bite. They are generally docile and pose no threat to humans.
What are daddy long legs good for?
Daddy long legs play a beneficial role in the ecosystem as scavengers. They help decompose organic matter, recycling nutrients and improving soil health.
Cellar Spider vs. Daddy Long Legs: Key Differences Summarized
| Feature | Cellar Spider (Pholcidae) | Daddy Long Legs (Opiliones) |
|---|---|---|
| Body | Two body segments | Single body segment |
| Legs | Long, thin | Relatively shorter, thicker |
| Webs | Builds irregular webs | Does not build webs |
| Venom | Weak, harmless to humans | No venom glands |
| Diet | Predatory (insects) | Scavenger (dead insects, etc.) |
Are Daddy Long Legs the Most Venomous Spider?
This is a pervasive myth and completely false. Daddy long legs are not spiders and therefore do not have venom. This misconception likely stems from the confusion between cellar spiders and harvestmen (daddy long legs).
Are Cellar Spiders Dangerous?
Cellar spiders are not dangerous to humans. While they have venom, it's too weak to cause any significant harm.
In conclusion, the terms "cellar spider" and "daddy long legs" are often confused but refer to distinct arachnids with different characteristics and ecological roles. Understanding these differences is key to appreciating the diversity of the arachnid world.
