Ortholasma colossus
This record describes Ortholasma colossus (species). Recorded family: Nemastomatidae. Recorded order: Opiliones.
Identification and Appearance
larger in size than other Californian Ortholasma
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Arachnida
- Order
- Opiliones (Harvestmen)
- Suborder
- Dyspnoi
- Superfamily
- Troguloidea
- Family
- Nemastomatidae
- Genus
- Ortholasma
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
woodlands under rocks & woody debris, caves
Geographic Range
Fresno and Tulare counties, CA
About Harvestmen: the wider group
Order-level background for Opiliones, the group containing Ortholasma colossus. Species-specific details appear above.
Group overview
Opiliones (harvestmen/daddy longlegs) includes ~6,650 described species. Despite common myths, harvestmen are NOT spiders - they have a single fused body (not two segments), no venom glands, and no silk. They are completely harmless.
Ecological role of the group
Some harvestmen species practice paternal care - males guard eggs, a rare behavior among arachnids. Many species can detach their legs when caught by predators (autotomy), and the detached leg continues twitching to distract the predator.
Economic and practical significance of the group
Harvestmen have minimal economic impact. They are primarily beneficial as predators of small arthropods and as decomposers of organic matter in forest and garden ecosystems.
Recorded sources for this group: Arachnology research. Imported estimates may describe particular regions or reporting periods.
Photos of Ortholasma colossus (2)
Photo credits: Contributed by marshal hedin; Additional contributions by cotinis
Frequently Asked Questions About Ortholasma colossus
What is Ortholasma colossus?
Ortholasma colossus is a species in the family Nemastomatidae, within the order Opiliones.
How do you identify Ortholasma colossus?
larger in size than other Californian Ortholasma
Where is Ortholasma colossus found?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Habitat | woodlands under rocks & woody debris, caves |
| Range | Fresno and Tulare counties, CA |