Common Stretch Spider

Description

Available in A3, A4 and A5 framed and unframed

The common stretch spider (Tetragnatha extensa) is a slender, long-legged arachnid found across Europe, including the Iberian Peninsula, thriving in wetland habitats, grasslands, and near bodies of water. It is named for its distinctive habit of stretching its body along stems or blades of grass to blend seamlessly into its surroundings, making it nearly invisible to predators. Typically measuring up to 10 mm in body length, it has an elongated, pale brown or greenish body with a metallic sheen, and its long, spindly legs are adapted for navigating vegetation. Like other members of the Tetragnatha genus, it builds horizontal orb webs near water, where it captures flying insects such as mosquitoes and midges. When threatened, the common stretch spider can rapidly retreat or remain motionless to avoid detection. Despite its delicate appearance, it plays a crucial role in controlling insect populations, making it an important part of wetland and grassland ecosystems.