Identification, Images, & Information
For Insects, Spiders & Their Kin
For the United States & Canada

Species Mastigoproctus giganteus - Giant Vinegaroon

Vinagaroon or windscorpion - Mastigoproctus giganteus Whip scorpion? - Mastigoproctus giganteus Large black bug - Mastigoproctus giganteus Baby vinagaroon - Mastigoproctus giganteus Juvenile vinagaroon - Mastigoproctus giganteus Think some sort of Scorpion in Florida  - Mastigoproctus giganteus Mastigoproctus giganteus mating 2 - Mastigoproctus giganteus - male - female Mastigoproctus giganteus mating 4a - Mastigoproctus giganteus - male - female
Classification
Kingdom Animalia (Animals)
Phylum Arthropoda (Arthropods)
Class Arachnida (Arachnids)
Order Uropygi (Whipscorpions)
Family Thelyphonidae
Genus Mastigoproctus
Species giganteus (Giant Vinegaroon)
Other Common Names
Vinegarroon, Vinegaroon
Size
up to 85 mm (>3")
Range
Southern US
Food
Carnivorous - preys on smaller creatures (insects, worms and slugs).
Remarks
The vinegaroon is nocturnal and has poor vision. The whiplike tail is used as a sensory organ, as is the first pair of legs, which is not used for walking. Although its tail in unable to sting, this creature can spray an acidic mist from a scent gland at the base of the tail when disturbed. The spray is 85% concentrated acetic acid/vinegar, hence the common name "Vinegaroon." The heavy pinching mouthparts (modified pedipalps) can also inflict a painful bite. Although very unlikely to attack humans, it can certainly defend itself if provoked.
Internet References
Texas A & M University species account
EnchantedLearning.com - diagram of bodyparts