Phalangids
Scientific name: Phalangiidae
Phalangids
Scientific name: Phalangiidae
Description
Members of the Phalangiidae family are fascinating yet often misunderstood creatures. A common misconception is that they are highly venomous; however, unlike their arachnid cousins the spiders, harvestmen do not possess venom glands or fangs, making them completely harmless to humans. These arthropods are distinguished by their exceptionally long legs relative to their body size, which they skillfully use to navigate and suspend themselves from vegetation. Intriguingly, when threatened, some species can detach a leg to escape predators, with the leg continuing to twitch, potentially distracting the predator and allowing the harvestman to flee.