
Community identification
Long-jawed orb-weaver spider
Tetragnatha sp.
- Order & Family
- Araneae; Tetragnathidae
- Size
- Adults are typically 5–12 mm in body length; legs make the spider appear much larger.
Natural Habitat
Common near ponds, streams, wetlands, and grassy vegetation, where it builds webs among stems and leaves.
Diet & Feeding
A predator of small flying insects, especially mosquitoes, flies, and other soft-bodied insects, which it captures in orb webs.
Behavior Patterns
Usually rests stretched along vegetation or artificial surfaces, often with its long legs aligned with the body. It is generally nocturnal or crepuscular and produces a delicate horizontal or angled web.
Risks & Benefits
Harmless to people; bites are rare and medically insignificant. It benefits ecosystems by consuming mosquitoes and other insect pests.