Giant Daddy-long-legs
Artema atlanta, family Pholcidae
Identification
Fine pin-like legs with span greater than large hand. Abdomen larger than pea. Length: including legs, 20-30cm. Dark coloured.
Distribution
Common west of Great Dividing Range but has been found in dry eastern areas in caves, mineshafts and other enclosed areas.
Web
Tangle with no particular structure.
Bite
One bite produced only local pain. Incorrectly attributed with dangerous venom. All venoms studies on the family Pholcidae have found only weak venom.
Notes
Bounces in web when disturbed.
Main prey: other spiders (including Redbacks) and insects.
Queensland Museum's Find out about... is proudly supported by the Thyne Reid Foundation and the Tim Fairfax Family Foundation.
