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Amblypigids, belonging to the order Amblypygi, share similarities with spiders and scorpions but form a distinct group within the arachnid classification.
One notable feature of amblypygids is their raptorial pedipalps, which have been modified to efficiently seize and grasp prey, much like the forelimbs of a praying mantis. Recent research indicates that these pedipalps exhibit sexual dimorphism in terms of their size and shape, suggesting potential roles in reproductive behavior.
The first pair of amblypygid legs, known as sensory legs, serve primarily as sensory organs rather than for locomotion. These legs are slender and elongated, equipped with numerous sensory receptors, and capable of extending several times the length of the body. They play a vital role in detecting and perceiving the environment.
Among the amblypygids found in Australia, Charinus pescotti is the only species commonly kept in captivity. It is prevalent in the rainforests of Far North Queensland (FNQ) and typically inhabits the areas beneath decaying logs and rocks. Australia is home to four other amblypygid species, with Charon trebax and Charon oenpelli being the two species found on the mainland.
In comparison to amblypygid species from other regions, Australian amblypigids tend to be smaller in size, with Charinus pescotti reaching an average leg span of approximately 35mm as the maximum recorded size.
Female amblypygids exhibit an intriguing reproductive behavior where they produce an egg sac that is securely held against the ventral side of their abdomen during the incubation period. Incubation typically lasts for three to four months, during which the mother refrains from feeding. After hatching, the juvenile amblypygids remain in close proximity to their mother for a minimum of two weeks, although the duration of this maternal association often extends beyond that timeframe before the young disperse.
General amblypigid breeding and taxa
General amblypigid breeding and taxa
Breeding Habits:
Breeding Habits:
Amblypigids engage in sexual reproduction, with courtship rituals and mate selection playing crucial roles in their breeding habits. Males typically initiate courtship by performing specific displays or vibrations to attract females. These displays often involve complex leg movements and antenniform legs, which are elongated sensory appendages located on their front legs.
During courtship, males transfer sperm to a specialized structure called a spermophore, which is present on their pedipalps. The male then presents the spermophore to the female, who retrieves it using her own genital structure. Fertilization occurs internally within the female's reproductive organs.
Once fertilization takes place, female amblypigids produce an egg sac, also known as an ootheca. The egg sac is typically carried beneath the abdomen, attached to the ventral side of the female's body. The female diligently guards and cares for the egg sac during the incubation period, which can last for several weeks or months, depending on the species.
Taxonomy:
Taxonomy:
Amblypygids belong to the order Amblypygi, which is one of the four orders within the class Arachnida. The other three orders in Arachnida include Araneae (spiders), Scorpiones (scorpions), and Opiliones (harvestmen or daddy longlegs).
Within the order Amblypygi, there are various families and genera. Some notable families include Charinidae, Phrynichidae, and Paracharontidae. These families comprise different species of amblypygids, each exhibiting specific characteristics and geographical distributions.
Taxonomically, the classification of amblypygids is continually evolving as new research uncovers more insights into their genetic relationships and morphological characteristics. Scientists use a combination of anatomical features, molecular analyses, and behavioral observations to refine and update the taxonomy of amblypygids.
Overall, amblypigids demonstrate fascinating breeding behaviors and occupy a distinct place within the broader classification of arachnids, contributing to the remarkable diversity of this arthropod group.
Refrences
Refrences
GBIF - https://www.gbif.org/species/search?q=Charinus%20pescotti
Leaflet | Atlas of Living Australia, Map data © OpenStreetMap, imagery © CartoDB
EOL - https://eol.org/search?q=Charinus%20pescotti&show_all=true
Biodiversity library - https://www.biodiversitylibrary.org/search?searchTerm=Charinus%20pescotti#/names
Arkive - https://www.arkive.org/explore/species?q=Charinus%20pescotti
ITIS - https://www.itis.gov/servlet/SingleRpt/SingleRpt?search_topic=TSN&search_value=744976#null
Amblypigi - http://www.amblypygi.org/?page_id=320
Inaturalist - https://www.inaturalist.org/taxa/903876-Charinus-pescotti
Wikidata - https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q10448493
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