Identifying harvestmen

mister_rob · #1 (**permalink**) 18-10-2010, 01:19 PM

Does anyone know how I can get hold of a key for identifying British harvestmen? None of the general books on invertebrates/spiders seem to include sections on them in any real detail. I keep finding lots of specimens but have no means of identifying them, apart from posting pictures of them up here of course!

Action_Man · #2 (**permalink**) 18-10-2010, 02:01 PM

If you read the article in the link below, it will initially help you, then its just down to experience, and a macro lens or a strong magnifying glass

...

https://sites.google.com/site/opilionesuk/

Gerel · #3 (**permalink**) 18-10-2010, 02:20 PM

Hi Gordon,

I was just looking at your updated guide linked to above. Without wanting to be picky you've stated that M. diadema has not been found in Wales.

"Megabunus diadema; spined ocularium

This species, like the following, is to be found mature in the spring. It is widely recorded from England and Ireland, but has not been found in Wales. Its foreign records come from France and Norway."

Is this a typo? I find them frequently here in Montgomeryshire.

regards

Steve

(apologies to mister_rob for the digression)

Action_Man · #4 (**permalink**) 18-10-2010, 02:25 PM

Thanks Steve, i`ll try and have read through this week and make a few alterations

...

Geoff F · #5 (**permalink**) 18-10-2010, 05:05 PM

As well as that excellent information from Gordon; you could invest in Harvestmen by P. D. Hillyard, from the Field Studies Council. Over 150 pages.

It does have step by step identification keys although, like many keys, it requires very close up views of various parts of the subject's anatomy which can make the keys difficult to follow from photographs.

Detailed descriptions and drawings of each species are included; along with a lot of general background information and advice.

mister_rob · #6 (**permalink**) 19-10-2010, 09:57 AM

Thanks to you all for that helpful information. I'll get out there and give it a go.

Paul mabbott · #7 (**permalink**) 20-10-2010, 02:36 PM

Sorry for double entry.
Now, or very shortly, there will be 'Guide to the Harvestmen of the British Isles', by Paul Richards available from FSC and bookshops &c.. FSC Publications - Identification Guides, Resources for Schools and Environmental Professionals

12-panel laminated fold-up chart with illustrations and comments on all the British harvesters (Opiliones).