Female Long-Bodied Cellar Spiders: The Unsung Heroes of Spider World

Pholcidae, commonly known as long-bodied cellar spiders or daddy long-legs spiders, are often overlooked despite their remarkable abilities and beneficial roles in controlling other spider populations. These eight-eyed spiders may look harmless with their pale yellow-brown bodies and gray patches on their cephalothorax, but they are capable of taking down venomous spiders.

One of the most striking features of female long-bodied cellar spiders is their impressive size. They can grow up to 9mm in body length, while males reach around 6mm in length. The female's larger size allows her to lay eggs and care for her young, while also being well-equipped to hunt and defend herself against other predators.

Despite their impressive abilities, Pholcidae spiders are often found indoors, where they spin webs to catch unsuspecting prey. In fact, 50% of the time, these spiders are sighted in a spider web, making them a common household pest. However, they can also be found outdoors, particularly during the month of March when their population is at its peak.

Pholcidae spiders have been spotted in over 30 states across North America and numerous countries around the world, including Afghanistan, Australia, Brazil, Canada, India, Italy, Malaysia, Pakistan, Spain, Thailand, Turkey, United Kingdom, and the United States. Their ability to adapt to different environments has made them a successful species.

In addition to their impressive size and hunting abilities, female long-bodied cellar spiders are also known for their beneficial role in controlling other spider populations. They are natural predators of venomous spiders and can help keep homes and apartments free of unwanted pests.

Overall, Pholcidae spiders may not be as flashy as some other species, but they play a vital role in the ecosystem and are an important part of many households. By understanding more about these remarkable creatures, we can better appreciate their importance and take steps to coexist with them harmoniously.

Female long bodied cellar spider