Diplocentrus

Peters, 1861

Toothed Scorpions

Diplocentrus is a of in the Diplocentridae, commonly known as toothed scorpions. The genus contains more than 60 described distributed primarily in Central America, Mexico, and the southwestern United States. Species in this genus are characterized by their elongated and distinctive -like structures on the . The genus includes both mainland and island-dwelling species, with documented occurrences in the Chisos Mountains of Texas and Islas de la Bahía in Honduras.

Diplocentrus lindo by (c) Sam Kieschnick, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Sam Kieschnick. Used under a CC-BY license.Diplocentrus by (c) Sue Carnahan, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Sue Carnahan. Used under a CC-BY license.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Diplocentrus: //ˌdɪploʊˈsɛntrəs//

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Identification

Diplocentrus can be distinguished from other by the presence of -like projections on the movable finger of the , a diagnostic feature of the Diplocentridae. The genus is further characterized by elongated with well-developed keels and a generally body form. -level identification requires examination of pedipalp , metasomal proportions, and pectine tooth counts.

Images

Habitat

Rocky terrain with talus slopes and boulder fields; documented from elevations of 1,200–2,000 meters in the Chisos Mountains. Specific microhabitat preferences vary by , with individuals seeking shelter under rocks during daytime.

Distribution

Central America, Mexico, and the southwestern United States. Documented localities include the Chisos Mountains of Big Bend National Park in Texas; Huejuquilla el Alto in northern Jalisco and adjacent Zacatecas, Mexico; and Islas de la Bahía in Honduras.

Seasonality

Reduced surface activity during winter months. Seasonal surface activity correlated with temperature and moisture conditions.

Life Cycle

Slow growth with extended lifespan; females of D. bigbendensis reach maturity at approximately 5 years, males at 4 years. Multiple occur before reaching adulthood. with females giving birth to live young.

Behavior

activity pattern with surface activity primarily at night. Individuals seek shelter under rocks during daytime. Birth has been documented in at least one (D. spitzeri).

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