This is an exceptionally large (wide-bodied) and robust harvestman. The trident is very conspicuous with robust, more or less equal-sized, forward-pointing members. In addition, there are thick spines on the trochanters and margin of the front half of the cephalothorax.
A conspicuous feature of the otherwise pale body is the normally truncated dark saddle , with a large paler central area, which is edged in white . In either sex, but in females especially, the inner paler area of the saddle can be so large that only a suggestion of the dark margin may be visible. However the dark posterior margin, edged with white, is usually still visible.
A predominately southern and eastern distribution in the UK, but it is thought to be expanding its range northwards. In Europe, the species has a mainly southern distribution. For the most up-to-date distribution map, visit the relevant page of the Spider and Harvestman Recording Scheme . The UK distribution reflects the generally southern European distribution - the UK being at the northern edge of its European range. It will be an interesting one to watch as climate change progresses.
Most commonly found on the ground where it has a preference for warm dry places and habitats.
In the UK adults are found from June to November with peak numbers in September. Wijnhoven (2009) states that peak activity is in November, but this is presumably influenced by the large numbers in the southern core of its range.
Hillyard, P. D., & Sankey, J. H. P. 2005. Synopses of the British Fauna (New Series) No. 4: Harvestmen. Field Studies Council, Shrewsbury.
Richards, P. 2010. Guide to Harvestmen of the British Isles. Field Studies Council, Shrewsbury.
Bibliography, P. 2017. Tabular key for Identification of British Harvestmen (Opiliones). Unpublished.
Wijnhoven, H. 2009. De Nederlandse hooiwagens (Opiliones). Nederlandse Entomologische Vereniging.