Amblypygi
Amblypygi (pronounced am-bli-pi-ji) is a class of arachnids, commonly known as whip spiders or tailless whip scorpions. The name "Amblypygi" comes from the Greek words "amblys" meaning blunt and "pyge" meaning rump, referring to the lack of a tail, a characteristic feature of this group of arachnids.
Etymology
The term Amblypygi is derived from the Greek words "amblys" (blunt) and "pyge" (rump), indicating the absence of a tail, which is a distinguishing feature of this class of arachnids.
Characteristics
Amblypygids possess long, whip-like front legs that they use for sensing their environment, and large, pedipalps (second pair of appendages) for capturing prey. They do not possess venom glands and are harmless to humans. They are nocturnal creatures and are found in tropical and subtropical regions.
Related Terms
- Arachnid: The larger group to which Amblypygi belongs. Arachnids are a class of joint-legged invertebrate animals, in the subphylum Chelicerata.
- Pedipalp: The second pair of appendages of the prosoma in the subphylum Chelicerata. They are used for sensing and manipulating food, and in the case of Amblypygi, for capturing prey.
- Venom gland: A specialized gland found in many arachnids and other venomous animals that produces venom.
- Nocturnal: Refers to animals that are active during the night and sleep during the day.
See Also
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