Cellar spiders
Important note: From an agronomic perspective, Pholcidae (commonly known as cellar spiders) are not plant pests. They belong to the order Araneae and are strictly predatory organisms. Categorizing them as "pests" here is intended for identification purposes, as their presence in agricultural structures often leads to confusion regarding their impact on crops.
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Cellar spiders
Systematically, these spiders belong to the family Pholcidae. They are identified by their long, spindly legs and their habit of constructing irregular, tangled webs in corners of greenhouses, potting sheds, and storage facilities. They are often mistaken for other arachnids, but they are biologically distinct.
They do not damage agricultural crops. As predators, they do not feed on plant tissues, juices, or roots. In fact, their activity in greenhouse environments is often beneficial, as they capture and feed on various small insects such as fungus gnats, aphids, and other pests that can be detrimental to plant health.
The biology and lifecycle of Pholcidae are well-adapted to sheltered environments. They go through incomplete metamorphosis and have a high survival rate in stable, humid conditions. Females often carry their eggs in specialized sacs, ensuring the protection of the offspring during the development phase.
- No chemical control is necessary for these spiders.
- Physical removal of webs is recommended if they obstruct machinery or crop maintenance.
- Avoid broad-spectrum insecticides to preserve these beneficial predators.
There are no specific protective measures required for crops against these spiders because they do not threaten the yield. Instead of using pest control methods, farmers should recognize them as part of the natural control ecosystem that aids in maintaining the health of the greenhouse environment by managing insect populations.