Elongate Long-jawed Orb-weaver
Tetragnatha elongata
Tetragnathidae (Long-jawed Orb-weavers), Order Araneae
Physical Description
Characterized by a significantly elongated, slender, and cylindrical body. The abdomen is several times longer than wide. When resting, the spider stretches its front and back legs out in a straight line with the body, creating a twig-like appearance. Pronounced chelicerae (jaws) are visible in adults.
Size Estimate
Body length 7-13mm for females, males slightly smaller; leg span can reach 25-40mm. This specimen appears to be an adult.
Coloration & Markings
Typically a mix of silver, tan, and greenish-yellow. The abdomen often features a silvery dorsal stripe with dark, wavy foliate patterns. The legs are generally light green or tan with dark spots at the joints.
Web Type
Builds a circular orb web, often oriented horizontally or at a steep angle. The webs frequently have an open hub (hole in the center) and are typically built near or over water.
Eye Arrangement
Eight eyes arranged in two rows of four. The rows are generally parallel or slightly diverging, which is a characteristic used to distinguish this family from Araneidae.
Leg Characteristics
Extremely long, thin legs relative to the body. They are sparsely covered in fine hairs and spines. The front two pairs are particularly long and held forward when the spider is at rest or hiding.
Venom & Safety Information
Venom Information
Possesses a mild venom used to immobilize small insects. The venom is not considered toxic to humans and is chemically adapted for rapidly subduing arthropod prey.
Medical Significance
Harmless to humans. Bites are extremely rare because the spider is timid; if a bite were to occur, it would likely cause minor localized redness and swelling similar to a mosquito bite.
Safety Recommendations
No special safety precautions are needed. They are beneficial garden inhabitants. If relocation is desired, gently move the spider using a container and release it near a water source or tall grass.
Habitat & Behavior
Habitat & Range
Common throughout North and Central America. They are highly associated with riparian zones, found near edges of lakes, streams, and marshes, often hanging from overhanging vegetation or man-made structures near water.
Behavior & Temperament
A shy, non-aggressive nocturnal hunter. During the day, it remains motionless on a twig or blade of grass, using its elongated body to camouflage. If disturbed, it often drops into the water or runs quickly to hide.
Diet & Prey
Primarily feeds on small flying aquatic insects such as midges, mosquitoes, and mayflies that emerge from the water and fly into its low-hanging web.
Seasonal Activity
Most active from late spring through early autumn. They are often seen in late summer when populations reach peak maturity and size.
Description
The Elongate Long-jawed Orb-weaver is a master of camouflage. With its stick-like profile and preference for watery habitats, it is a fascinating example of specialization. It is most often seen at night when it moves to the center of its web to wait for emerging insects.
Key Features
Extremely elongated abdomen, exceptionally long chelicerae, and the characteristic 'straight line' resting posture where legs are extended longitudinally.
Similar Species
Tetragnatha laboriosa (Silver Long-jawed Orb-weaver) which is typically found in meadows rather than near water, and various species in the Araneidae family which have much rounder abdomens.
Life Cycle
Females lay egg sacs in late summer or autumn, typically attaching them to twigs or leaves near water. The spiderlings hatch and disperse, often via ballooning. Most individuals live for approximately one year.
Ecological Importance
Significant for natural pest control, particularly in managing populations of mosquitoes and midges near wetlands and residential areas.
Conservation Status
Not evaluated by IUCN, but considered common and stable throughout its range with no immediate threats.
Interesting Facts
The genus name Tetragnatha comes from the Greek for 'four-jawed,' referring to the oversized chelicerae. These spiders are capable of running across the surface of the water if they fall in.
Photography Tips
To capture the unique eye arrangement and jaws, a macro lens is required. Look for them at night with a flashlight to see them active in the center of their webs, or look along twigs near water during the day for their camouflaged form.
Identified: 2026-07-01T19:34:38.456071