Amblypygi
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(am′blip·i′jī)
(invertebrate zoology) An order of chelicerate arthropods in the class Arachnida, commonly known as the tailless whip scorpions.
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An order of arachnids, the tailless whip scorpions, comprising about 80 species of flattened, crablike forms from the tropical and warm temperate regions of the world. The somber red or brownish species vary considerably in size, from 0.16–1.80 in. (4 to 45 mm), the largest being Acanthophyrnus coronatus of California and Mexico. The pedipalps are long raptorial organs set with many sharp spines that grasp and crush insect prey. The first pair of legs is modified into very long, lashlike whips which are used as sensory feelers. No tail is present on the abdomen. The amblypygids are harmless, nocturnal types that live under stones, in rock fissures and caves, and frequently in houses. No venom or repellent glands are present. See also Arachnida.
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