Order Amblypygi - Tailless Whipscorpions

Whipspiders

Cave Spiders

Greek amblys (αμβλυς)- "dull, blunt" + pyge (πυγη)- "rump"

This refers to the lack of any tail as in some other related arachnids. (AAS)

However, all species have small tail segments that functions in molting, so they are actually without a flagellum, not without a tail, so "flagellumless whipscorpion" would be more appropriate.

5 families, 150 species worldwide. (1)(2)(3)

5-45mm (1)(4)

Chiefly in the Southern states. Arizona, Texas (Big Bend Region), and Florida.

Insects and other arthropods (1)

Males construct a spermatophore which the female picks up with her genitalia. The mother broods the eggs in a specialized broodsac firmly attached to the opisthosomal sternites and held in place by clawlike sclerites below the genital operculum. This period lasts three to four months and includes the transformation to postembryo inside the broodsac. The eggs are never exposed to air and is functionally similar to live bearing. After hatching, the first instars climb on to the mother's back and are carried around until the molt to second instar which is approximately ten days. (1)(6)

No venom glands (7), and do not sting or bite (1). If disturbed, they scuttle sideways (2).