Mastigoproctus tohono

Barrales-Alcalá, Francke & Prendini, 2018

Tohono whipscorpion, Tohono vinegaroon

Mastigoproctus tohono is a of whip scorpion (order Uropygi) described in 2018 from previously attributed to Mastigoproctus giganteus. It is distinguished by specific setal patterns and epistoma positioning. The species produces acetic acid spray as a chemical defense, creating a vinegar-like odor. It inhabits arid regions of the southwestern United States and northern Mexico.

Mastigoproctus tohono by (c) Don Loarie, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Don Loarie. Used under a CC-BY license.Mastigoproctus tohono 142770558 by Jake N.. Used under a CC BY 4.0 license.Mastigoproctus tohono 142770541 by Jake N.. Used under a CC BY 4.0 license.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Mastigoproctus tohono: /ˌmæstɪgoʊˈproʊktəs toʊˈhoʊnoʊ/

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Identification

Distinguished from the similar Mastigoproctus giganteus by differing areas of setae frequency and epistoma positioning. The only reliable identification requires close examination of these morphological characters. Most sightings in the Chiricahua and Huachuca Mountains of Arizona were previously attributed to M. giganteus.

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Habitat

Arid and semi-arid environments of the Sonoran Desert region. Found in rocky areas, under debris, and in soil burrows. Observed in urban settings near building foundations.

Distribution

Native range extends from northern Sonora, Mexico to southern Arizona and western New Mexico, USA. Majority of records from the Chiricahua and Huachuca Mountains of Cochise County, Arizona.

Diet

. Captures and crushes prey using modified . Observed feeding on crickets in captivity.

Life Cycle

Develops through , post-embryonic stages, and . Specific details of developmental stages and duration not documented in available sources.

Behavior

Primarily . Relies on antenniform front legs, tail, and for navigation and sensing due to extremely poor vision. When threatened, sprays acetic acid from glands at the base of the tail; this chemical defense can injure and irritate vertebrate and nose.

Ecological Role

in arid . Specific ecological interactions not well documented.

Human Relevance

Defensive spray can cause irritation to human and nose but is not dangerous. Occasionally encountered in urban areas. Kept in captivity by arachnid enthusiasts.

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Etymology

name from Greek 'μαστίγιο' (whip/scourge) and 'πρωκτός' (/), referring to the defensive tail. Specific epithet honors the Tohono O'odham people native to the ' range in southern Arizona and northern Sonora.

Taxonomic history

Described in 2018 after recognition that certain formerly identified as M. giganteus represented a distinct .

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