Introduction
If you are an arachnophobe, then you probably do not like spiders. However, there is one type of spider that you might not mind too much, and that is the Daddy Long Legs spider. These spiders are known for their long, thin legs, and their ability to create intricate webs. In this article, we will explore the world of Daddy Long Legs spiders and their webs.
Daddy Long Legs Spider
The Daddy Long Legs spider, also known as the cellar spider, belongs to the family Pholcidae. These spiders are found all over the world and are known for their long, thin legs. They are not dangerous to humans and are actually beneficial as they eat other insects in your home.
Their bodies are small, ranging from 2 to 10 mm in length, and their legs can be up to three times their body length. They are usually light brown or gray in color and have a bulbous abdomen.
Daddy Long Legs Web
The Daddy Long Legs spider is known for its unique web-building abilities. Their webs are asymmetrical and have a tangled appearance. They are not sticky like other spider webs, but instead, they are made up of fine, irregular strands that trap their prey.
Daddy Long Legs spiders are often found in dark, damp places such as basements, cellars, and crawl spaces. They build their webs in corners and crevices where they can catch insects that stumble into their trap.
Web Design
The Daddy Long Legs spider's web design is fascinating. They use a technique called "random reinforcement" when building their webs. This means that they create a framework of web strands and then randomly reinforce certain strands to make the web stronger.
Their webs are also designed to be very efficient. They use a minimal amount of silk to create their webs and only reinforce certain areas to ensure that their prey does not escape.
Function of the Web
The Daddy Long Legs spider's web serves two primary functions: catching prey and providing a home. Their webs are designed to catch insects and other small creatures that they can eat. They also use their webs as a place to hide and lay their eggs.
Feeding Habits
The Daddy Long Legs spider is a carnivore and feeds on a variety of insects and other small creatures. They are known to eat flies, mosquitoes, and even other spiders. They use their long legs to wrap their prey in silk and immobilize them before eating them.
Reproduction
The Daddy Long Legs spider reproduces sexually. The male will approach the female and tap her legs to signal his intentions. If the female is receptive, she will allow the male to mate with her.
The female Daddy Long Legs spider can lay up to 60 eggs at a time. She will create a small silk sac to protect her eggs and will guard them until they hatch.
Conclusion
The Daddy Long Legs spider and its web are fascinating creatures. They are not dangerous to humans and are actually beneficial as they eat other insects in your home. Their unique web-building abilities and feeding habits make them a valuable part of the ecosystem. If you find a Daddy Long Legs spider in your home, do not be afraid to let it stay.