Opiliones
Opiliones
Opiliones (pronounced: oh-pil-ee-oh-nees) are an order of Arachnida, commonly known as harvestmen or daddy longlegs. The name "Opiliones" is derived from the Latin word "opilio", which means "shepherd", due to the long legs of these creatures resembling a shepherd's staff.
Description
Opiliones are known for their exceptionally long legs compared to their body size. They have a fused body, unlike spiders, and they do not produce silk or venom. They are omnivorous, feeding on small insects, plant material, and fungi.
Distribution and Habitat
Opiliones are found worldwide, with over 6,500 species described. They inhabit a wide range of habitats, from forests and grasslands to caves and high mountain regions.
Behavior
Opiliones are known for their unique defensive behaviors, such as playing dead or autotomy, where they detach their own legs to escape predators.
Classification
Opiliones are classified under the class Arachnida, which also includes spiders, scorpions, and mites. They are further divided into four suborders: Cyphophthalmi, Eupnoi, Dyspnoi, and Laniatores.
Related Terms
- Arachnida: The class of joint-legged invertebrate animals that includes spiders, scorpions, mites, and ticks.
- Cyphophthalmi: A suborder of Opiliones, known as the "midget" harvestmen.
- Eupnoi: A suborder of Opiliones, which includes the most familiar species, the "daddy longlegs".
- Dyspnoi: A suborder of Opiliones, known for their cryptic behavior and habitats.
- Laniatores: A suborder of Opiliones, characterized by their robust bodies and short legs.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Opiliones
- Wikipedia's article - Opiliones
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