Phalangium opilio - Male

- No description given -

comments (8)

Ferdy Christant

Lion

Huge horns!

(and yes looked up that this is indeed the correct term to use :) Posted 3 years ago
1. Pudding4brains
  
  Lion
  
  Yes these are horn-like apophysis on the chelicerae. Also "astonishing" on the male Phalangium opilio are the extremely long palps. Here you can see both in a lateral view:
  
  Posted 3 years ago
2. 1. Ferdy Christant
    
    Lion
    
    Ridiculous! I believe I've seen something similar in tropical species. They are retractable, right?
    https://www.flickr.com/photos/rainforests/30893195907/in/album-72157703375762044/ Posted 3 years ago
  2. 1. Pudding4brains
      
      Lion
      
      Oh wow, that is one awesome Harvestman :o)
      Not retractable as in "can be pulled back into the body" or some such, but fully functional/movable much like a pair of legs (hence these are called "pedipalps"). Posted 3 years ago
    2. 1. Ferdy Christant
        
        Lion
        
        It should have used the word "foldable" :) Posted 3 years ago

Christine Young

Lion

Wow, he sure is well-endowed! Posted 3 years ago
1. Pudding4brains
  
  Lion
  
  It is indeed an indication of "manliness" in this species with some males having more and others less developed horns :o) Posted 3 years ago
2. 1. Christine Young
    
    Lion
    
    Well, he is a lucky fella then <3. Posted 3 years ago

The European Harvestman

"Phalangium opilio" is "the most widespread species of harvestman in the world", occurring natively in Europe, and much of Asia, and having been introduced to North America, North Africa and New Zealand. It is found in a wide range of habitats, including meadows, bogs, forests, and various types of anthropogenic habitats, such as gardens, fields, hedgerows, lawns, quarries, green places in built-up areas, walls and bridges.

Info 28 0

Similar species: Harvestmen

Species identified by Pudding4brains