Common harvestman
Phalangium opilio
Phalangium opilio, known as the common harvestman, is a widespread species of harvestman in the Palearctic region. Males possess characteristic horn-like projections on their chelicerae, which give the species its name. They are primarily crepuscular and nocturnal, inhabiting diverse environments ranging from forests to human settlements. As opportunistic omnivores, they play a significant role in the ecosystem by controlling small insect populations.
Details
Identification
Two rows of tubercles on the ocularium, long legs, males with horn-like projections on the chelicerae.
Social behavior
Predominantly solitary, occasionally forming resting aggregations in sheltered locations.
Diet
Generalist predator and scavenger; feeds on aphids, small flies, mites, as well as dead insects and plant juices.
Hunting strategy
Active wandering and seizing of prey using the pedipalps and chelicerae.
Spawning substrate
Moist soil, moss, or leaf litter for egg deposition.
Overwintering
Overwintering usually occurs in the egg stage within the soil in Central Europe.
Ecology
Ecological role
Important predator in agroecosystems, contributing to biological pest control.
Natural predators
Birds, lizards, toads, shrews, and predatory insects.
Competitor species
Other harvestman species such as Opilio canestrinii or Mitopus morio.
Ecosystem service
Biological pest control by consuming aphids and other small insects.
Threats
Intensive agriculture and the associated use of broad-spectrum insecticides.
Scientific profile
Profile
Distinguishing features
Characteristic are the horn-like projections on the second segment of the chelicerae in males. The eye mound (ocularium) bears two longitudinal rows of 5 to 9 small spines each. The legs are extremely long and thin, with the second pair of legs functioning as tactile organs.
Habitat
Highly adaptable (eurytopic). Inhabits open land, meadows, gardens, arable land, and forest edges. Frequently found synanthropically on house walls and in parks.
Role in food web
Important predator of agricultural pests (beneficial organism). Serves as a food source for birds, amphibians, and larger spiders.
Protection & threats
Status not on standard scale
Main threats
Use of broad-spectrum insecticides in agriculture and the loss of structurally diverse edge habitats.
Population trend
Stable; Phalangium opilio is considered one of the most common and widely distributed harvestman species globally.