pholcids

Pholcids are a family of long-legged, slender-bodied spiders commonly known as cellar spiders, daddy longlegs spiders, or, in some regions, granddaddy longlegs. These spiders are found worldwide in a variety of habitats, but they are most frequently encountered in human dwellings, such as basements, garages, and attics, hence their common names. Their delicate, thread-like legs can span several inches, giving them a distinctive appearance.

The family Pholcidae comprises over 1,800 species. They are characterized by their extremely long, thin legs, small cephalothoraxes, and abdomens that are often oval or cylindrical. Their coloration typically ranges from pale brown to gray, providing camouflage in dimly lit environments. Pholcids are not venomous to humans and are considered harmless.

These spiders are opportunistic predators that construct irregular, three-dimensional webs, often in corners or other undisturbed areas. Their diet primarily consists of other arthropods, including flies, mosquitoes, and even other spiders. When disturbed, pholcids exhibit a unique defense mechanism: they rapidly vibrate their bodies and webs, creating a blurry effect that can deter predators. They are also known to scavenge on dead insects or even other pholcids. Reproduction involves the male transferring sperm to the female, after which the female lays eggs in a silken sac that she carries with her.