How Long Do Spiders Live? – Daddy Long Legs
WouterIf you’re wondering how long do spiders live, you’re not alone. Daddy long legs have been found in fossils that are 400 million years old. They are also known as harvest spiders, cellar spiders, and opportunistic predators. These spiders feed on aphids, worms, and other insects.
There are four suborders of daddy long legs. The northern daddy long legs, for example, only live for one year, whereas the southern daddy long legs can survive for two years. Despite their short lifespan, they’re still a fascinating species.
The female daddy long legs lay two to eight egg sacs. Each sac contains fertilised and unfertilised eggs. It takes about two to three weeks for the eggs to hatch. When they do, the babies ride on the mother’s back until they’re ready to leave.
Daddy long legs are venomous, though they aren’t very strong. Their fangs are too short to pierce human skin. However, their venom can be fatal to other arachnids, such as redback spiders.
In some regions, the daddy long legs are very colorful. In South America, they can have vibrant colors. This is because they use color to attract prey. And they’re good mothers.
During breeding season, the male Daddy long legs vibrate to attract females. She then carries the eggs in her mouth for about three weeks. After they hatch, the baby spiders take their first molt. Afterward, they can be about a year old.
The average life span of an adult Daddy long leg is about 2 years. It depends on how long it can hide from predators and how well it searches for food.
