
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.
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.