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Mastigoproctus colombianus

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Mastigoproctus colombianus
Scientific classification Edit this classification
Domain: Eukaryota
Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Arthropoda
Subphylum: Chelicerata
Class: Arachnida
Order: Uropygi
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

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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

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Whip scorpions are carnivorous, nocturnal hunters feeding mostly on insects and millipedes,[1] but sometimes on worms and slugs.

Habitat

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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

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References

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  1. ^ a b c Schmidt, Günther (1993). Giftige und gefährliche Spinnentiere (in German). Westarp Wissenschaften. ISBN 3-89432-405-8.