Epiocheirata
Harvey, 1992
Epiocheirata is a suborder of established by Harvey in 1992, containing approximately 5 and at least 740 described . This group represents one of the major lineages within the Pseudoscorpiones. The suborder is characterized by specific morphological features of the chelal fingers and arrangement. Members are found across diverse worldwide.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Epiocheirata: /ˌɛpiəˈkaɪrətə/
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Identification
Epiocheirata is distinguished from the other suborder, Iocheirata, primarily by the arrangement of on the chelal fingers. In Epiocheirata, the trichobothria are positioned on the external () surface of the fixed finger and the internal () surface of the movable finger. This arrangement is reversed in Iocheirata. Additional diagnostic features include specific patterns of the chelal .
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Habitat
Members of Epiocheirata occupy a wide range of microhabitats including soil litter, decaying wood, bark, moss, and caves. Many are found in association with other , particularly under stones or in leaf litter in forested environments. Some lineages have adapted to subterranean .
Distribution
The suborder has a distribution with representatives on all continents except Antarctica. Highest diversity occurs in tropical and subtropical regions. Specific distribution patterns vary considerably among the constituent .
Behavior
Many exhibit phoretic , attaching to larger or mammals for . This behavior has been documented in multiple within the suborder.
Ecological Role
Epiocheirata function as of microarthropods in soil and litter . They contribute to through on , , and other small . Some are important associates in nest communities of birds and mammals.
Human Relevance
Epiocheirata are harmless to humans and occasionally found in houses where they on small pests such as and . Their presence indicates healthy soil . No are known to be of medical or economic significance.
Similar Taxa
- IocheirataThe other recognized suborder of Pseudoscorpiones, distinguished by the inverse arrangement of on the chelal fingers (internal on fixed finger, external on movable finger) and generally more slender in many lineages.
More Details
Taxonomic Status
The Catalogue of Life lists Epiocheirata as a synonym of Heterosphyronida, reflecting ongoing taxonomic debate regarding subordinal within Pseudoscorpiones. The classification adopted here follows Harvey's 1992 system, which remains widely used in current literature.
Family Composition
The suborder includes approximately 5 , though exact composition varies among . Major families include Cheliferidae, Withiidae, and Atemnidae, which together encompass the majority of described .