Mastigoproctus colombianus
| Mastigoproctus colombianus | |
|---|---|
| |
Scientific classification 
| |
| Kingdom: | Animalia |
| Phylum: | Arthropoda |
| Subphylum: | Chelicerata |
| Class: | Arachnida |
| Order: | Thelyphonida |
| Family: | Thelyphonidae |
| Genus: | Mastigoproctus |
| Species: | M. colombianus
|
| Binomial name | |
| Mastigoproctus colombianus Mello-Leitão, 1940
| |
Mastigoproctus colombianus is a whip scorpion species found in Colombia, South America, near west deserts areas.
Description[]
Mastigoproctus colombianus range from 45 to 65 millimetres (1.8 to 2.6 in) in length. Color brown and red-end legs.
Like the related orders Schizomida, Amblypygi and Solifugae, uropygids use only six legs for walking, having modified their first two legs to serve as antennae-like sensory organs. Whip scorpions have no venom glands, but they do have glands near the rear of their abdomen that can spray a combination of acetic acid and octanoic acid when they are bothered.[1] The acetic acid gives this spray a vinegar-like smell, giving rise to the common name vinegaroon.
Behaviour[]
Whip scorpions are carnivorous, nocturnal hunters feeding mostly on insects and millipedes,[1] but sometimes on worms and slugs.
Habitat[]
Mastigoproctus colombianus are found in tropical and subtropical areas of Colombia. They usually dig burrows with their pedipalps, to which they transport their prey.[1] They may also burrow under logs, rotting wood, rocks, and other natural debris. They enjoy humid, dark places and avoid the light.
See also[]
References[]
- Scorpions of South America
- Arthropods of Colombia
- Endemic fauna of Colombia
- Animals described in 1940
- Thelyphonida