Defensive-spray
Guides
Eurycotis floridana
Florida Woods Cockroach, Palmetto Bug, Florida Skunk Roach, Florida Stinkroach, Skunk Cockroach, Skunk Roach, Stinking Cockroach, Stinkroach, Florida Cockroach, Florida Woods Roach
Eurycotis floridana is a large cockroach species native to Florida, commonly known as the Florida Woods Cockroach or palmetto bug. Adults measure 30–40 mm in length and possess a distinctive defensive capability: when alarmed, they can eject an extremely foul-smelling directional spray up to one meter, earning them numerous common names referencing this skunk-like defense. The species has been found to harbor Wolbachia bacteria, an endosymbiont that may provide nutritional benefits. Mating behavior includes courtship displays and post-copulatory mate guarding by males.
Mastigoproctus
whip scorpion, vinegaroon
Mastigoproctus is a genus of large whip scorpions (vinegaroons) in the family Thelyphonidae. These arachnids are characterized by their elongated antenniform front legs, robust pedipalps, and ability to spray defensive acetic acid. The genus includes approximately 25 accepted species distributed across the Americas, from the southwestern United States through Mexico, Central America, the Caribbean, and into northern South America. Despite their intimidating appearance, they are not venomous and lack venom glands entirely.
Mastigoproctus cinteotl
Mastigoproctus cinteotl is a species of vinegaroon (whip scorpion) in the family Thelyphonidae, described in 2018. It belongs to a genus of large, primarily nocturnal arachnids found in the Americas. Like other vinegaroons, it possesses a pair of elongated, whip-like front legs used as sensory appendages, and can discharge a defensive spray of acetic acid from glands at the base of the tail. The species is part of a group often kept in captivity for educational purposes due to their docile nature and distinctive appearance.
Mastigoproctus giganteus
giant whip scorpion, giant vinegaroon, grampus, Texas giant vinegaroon
Mastigoproctus giganteus is a large arachnid in the order Uropygi, commonly known as the giant whip scorpion or vinegaroon. It is the only member of family Thelyphonidae found in the United States, occurring from the southern U.S. through Mexico. The species is nocturnal and occupies humid microhabitats in arid and semi-arid environments. It is notable for its ability to spray a defensive secretion containing 85% acetic acid, which produces a strong vinegar-like odor. The species is long-lived, with females producing a single brood of approximately 40 offspring that receive extended maternal care.