Leiobunum

Leiobunum is a genus of harvestmen, commonly known as daddy longlegs or granddaddy longlegs. These arachnids are not true spiders but belong to the order Opiliones. They are characterized by their exceptionally long, slender legs, which can be many times the length of their small, oval-shaped bodies. Leiobunum species are found in temperate regions across the Northern Hemisphere, including North America and Europe.

These creatures are scavengers and predators, feeding on dead insects, decaying organic matter, and sometimes small, living invertebrates. They possess simple eyes, typically located on a prominent structure called the carapace. Leiobunum are not venomous and do not bite humans, making them harmless to people. When threatened, they may exhibit a behavior called thigmotaxis, pressing their bodies against a surface, or they might attempt to escape by running rapidly on their long legs. Some species have the ability to autotomize, or detach, a leg to distract a predator, which can then regenerate in subsequent molts. The life cycle of Leiobunum involves several nymphal stages before reaching adulthood.