Bug Identifier
Long-jawed orb-weaver (stretch spider)
Community identification

Long-jawed orb-weaver (stretch spider)

Tetragnatha sp.

Order & Family
Araneae; Tetragnathidae
Size
Body length is typically 4–12 mm; females are generally larger than males. Legs can extend several centimeters.
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

Vegetation near ponds, streams, wetlands, and other humid habitats; often rests on leaves or slender stems. It is widespread in temperate and tropical regions.

Diet & Feeding

Feeds mainly on small flying insects, especially mosquitoes, flies, and tiny moths, which it captures in a delicate orb web.

Behavior Patterns

Often stretches its long body and legs along plant stems for camouflage. It is primarily nocturnal or crepuscular, rebuilding or repairing webs as needed; females produce egg sacs on vegetation.

Risks & Benefits

Harmless to humans, with bites uncommon and medically insignificant. It benefits ecosystems by reducing populations of mosquitoes and other small insects.