Synsphyronus PSE093 dorsal view

Synsphyronus `PSE093 8/1 Pilbara`

Pseudoscorpions are small arachnids that resemble scorpions with their grasping pincers (pedipalps). However, they lack the distinctive stinging tail of scorpions, and instead have a pear-shaped body. The full species diversity of pseudoscorpions is unknown, and the Western Australian Museum is a major contributor to describing species and resolving relationships in this poorly understood group.

Morphology

This small pseudoscorpion (ca. 2.5-3.0 mm in length) differs from other species of the genus by the combined presence of fused metatarsi and tarsi, a constricted anterior eye and a trichobothrial pattern of 8 on the fixed finger and 1 on the movable finger.

Evolution

The genus Synsphyronus is the most diverse genus of Garypidae, with approximately 30 named species in Australia, and two named species in New Zealand. A new species has been found in New Caledonia, and there are numerous undescribed species in Australia.

Method of reproduction

Sexual

Habitat

Terrestrial

Under the bark of trees, including; Melaleuca argentea and Corymbia hamersleyana.

Distribution

This species is found widespread through the Pilbara region, WA, and in neighbouring regions to the east.

Taxonomy

Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Arthropoda
Class: Arachnida
Order: Pseudoscorpiones
Suborder: Iocheirata
Infraorder: Panctenata
Superfamily: Garypoidea
Family: Garypidae
Genus: Synsphyronus
Species: `PSE093, 8/1 Pilbara`
Rank: species
Commercial Impact: 

None

Conservation Assessment: Least Concern

Phylogenetic Tree: 

Phylogenetic tree

Net Conservation Benefits Fund

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Western Australian Museum Collections https://museum.wa.gov.au/online-collections/names/synsphyronus-pse093-81-pilbara
Accessed 31 Aug 2023

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