Bug Identifier
Long-jawed orb-weaver spider
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.
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

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.