Harvestman ID anyone?

[jezlee]

I found this rather short-legged harvestman sitting on the doorstep this morning - does anybody recognise it?

[jezlee]

I've just had a quick search again on t'internet and found one that looks similar – Odiellus spinosus. Does anybody agree with this?

[Geoff F]

Any idea of size, Jez?

There are 3 possible answers for species with a well developed trident.

Odiellus spinosus is large; with a body length between 7 and 11 mm. The alternatives are a lot smaller with a maximum size of 5 mm.

This species is rather restricted in location, although appears to be spreading. So your location may be important as you are probably around the edge of the current area. But I don't have an up to date map of recordings.

[jezlee]

Originally Posted by Geoff F

Any idea of size, Jez?

There are 3 possible answers for species with a well developed trident.

Odiellus spinosus is large; with a body length between 7 and 11 mm. The alternatives are a lot smaller with a maximum size of 5 mm.

This species is rather restricted in location, although appears to be spreading. So your location may be important as you are probably around the edge of the current area. But I don't have an up to date map of recordings.

I keep telling myself to measure things whenever possible, and I still forget next time! From memory, I would say body length was around 5-7mm, no more. What do you think?

[Geoff F]

In that case, Jez, let's have a think about option 2.

Unfortunately the ID keys continue with a detailed examination of the pedipalps, which aren't visible here.

However, those smaller tubercles directly behind the trident members make me think about Lacinius ephippiatus.

Body around 5.5 mm and medium length legs. Second leg 16 - 20 mm.

Gordon is the expert for harvestmen but I haven't noticed him on this site for a while. I'm just trying to learn the subject.

[jezlee]

Thanks for at least pointing me in the right direction, Geoff! How many Harvestmen do we have in the UK?

[Geoff F]

Just counting those which 'look like harvestmen' there are about 20; although some are a bit specific in location/habitat.

Although the number of species isn't great, several species appear superficially similar and colouration can vary quite a lot.

Much of the ID Keys rely upon close examination of areas like the pedipalps which are frequently difficult to see from photographs. And, of course, microscopic examination of the genitalia.

[JRsbugs]

Lacinius ephippiatus looks good to me, in fact I hadn't read that Geoff had suggested it before I found it.

Harvestman (Lacinius ephippiatus) | Flickr - Photo Sharing!

[jezlee]

Geoff and Janet: thanks again for all your help - it's all helpful for amateurs like me!