Definition

1. Noun:
   • Order of arachnids: "Order Phalangida" is the scientific taxonomic name for a specific order of arachnids, commonly known as harvestmen or daddy longlegs. This order is characterized by having a compact, oval body that appears to be a single segment, and very long, slender legs.

Usage Notes

• This term is used exclusively in formal, scientific contexts such as zoology, biology, and taxonomy. It is not used in everyday conversation.
• When used, it typically refers to the entire taxonomic group. For example: "The study focused on the sensory organs within ."

Examples

• Scientific Context:
  • The biologist classified the specimen under Order Phalangida.
  • Members of Order Phalangida are distinct from spiders, as they lack venom glands and silk-producing organs.

Advanced Usage

• In Taxonomic Hierarchy: The term is used to specify a rank within biological classification (Kingdom: Animalia, Phylum: Arthropoda, Class: Arachnida, Order: Phalangida).
  • The phylogenetic tree shows the relationship between Order Phalangida and other arachnid orders.

Variants and Related Words

• Harvestmen (n): The common English name for arachnids belonging to Order Phalangida.
  • Harvestmen are often seen in gardens in the autumn.
• Opiliones (n): An alternative, synonymous scientific name for the same order. "Order Opiliones" is often used interchangeably with "Order Phalangida" in modern taxonomy.
  • Some taxonomic references use the name Opiliones instead of Phalangida.

Synonyms

• Opiliones: The alternative scientific name for the same taxonomic order.
• Harvestmen: The common name for the arachnids in this order.

Related Phrases

• Daddy longlegs: A common, informal name often used for harvestmen (Order Phalangida). Note: This name is also sometimes incorrectly used for crane flies (insects) or cellar spiders (arachnids in a different order).
  • Children often call harvestmen "daddy longlegs" because of their long legs.

Noun

1. harvestmen