Pseudocellus

Distinguished from other ricinuleid genera primarily by genitalic characters and details of body sculpturing. The cucullus structure, number and arrangement of tarsal sensilla, and male and female genitalic morphology are critical for species-level identification. Pseudocellus species can be separated from the Old World genus Ricinoides by geographic distribution (Neotropical vs. Afrotropical) and subtle morphological differences in tarsal pore organs.

Found in humid tropical and subtropical environments. Many species inhabit caves, leaf litter, and soil habitats. Several Mexican and Central American species are known from cave systems (troglobitic or troglophilic), while others occur in forest floor microhabitats.

Neotropical region: Mexico (numerous species, including several cave-dwelling forms), Guatemala, Belize, Honduras, El Salvador, Panama, Cuba (high diversity with multiple endemic species), and a single species (P. dorotheae) recorded from the United States (southern Florida).

The cucullus is lowered during feeding and raised when not in use. Pedipalps are used for sensory exploration and manipulation of prey. Tarsal pore organs and other sensilla on the legs and pedipalps function in chemoreception and mechanoreception.

Predatory components of soil and litter arthropod communities in Neotropical forests and cave ecosystems.

Of scientific interest for studies of arachnid evolution, sensory biology, and cave ecology. No known economic or medical importance.

• RicinoidesThe only other extant genus of Ricinoididae; distinguished by Old World (Afrotropical) distribution and differences in tarsal pore organ ultrastructure
• CryptocellusNeotropical genus in family Ricinoididae; distinguished by different cucullus morphology and genitalic characters

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