Amblypygida spp., tailless whip scorpion – Careyes, Mexico
August 4, 2012
Initially I had thought this was a Thelyphonida species, which I photographed in Jalisco, Mexico, however thanks to the following informative comment from reader Dan Proud, I stand corrected… I quote Dan’s comment here: “I’d like to point out that this is actually a species belonging to the arachnid order Amblypygida (and not Thelyphonida). The most common name for amblypygids is tailless whip scorpion – because they lack that long whip-like “tail” found on vinegarroons. Amblypygids are certainly fascinating creatures and are also completely harmless (lack venom, don’t bite – they may try to claw at you with their intimidating pedipalps but it is painless)!
Thanks for the info Dan…
Click photo to enlarge…
6 Comments
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ahhh, but its so crazy looking. hahah Its really nice to know its actually not going to kill me if i ever visit a country where these little critters live.
thanks for posting this. Learn something new every day on this site.
Thanks for the comment! please visit again soon….
I don’t care if it’s harmless, I’m not messing with anything that ugly.
Very cool photos! These animals are incredible! I hope you won’t be offended if I offer a correction to the ID of this specimen. I’d like to point out that this is actually a species belonging to the arachnid order Amblypygida (and not Thelyphonida). The most common name for amblypygids is tailless whip scorpion – because they lack that long whip-like “tail” found on vinegarroons. Amblypygids are certainly fascinating creatures and are also completely harmless (lack venom, don’t bite – they may try to claw at you with their intimidating pedipalps but it is painless)!
Dan, thanks a lot for the interesting and informative comment, exactly the kind of feedback I appreciate getting on this site, I’ll update the I’d info as soon as I have a chance. Come back soon!
Looks edible!