Morphology

This species may be distinguished from all others by the structure of its male gonopods. Females and juveniles on their own cannot be used for identification.

Evolution

The genus Antichiropus belongs to the family Paradoxosomatidae. The genus exhibits a distinctive gonopod (specialised structure used for reproduction), which is the basis for morphological identification.
The genus is very species rich, and due to the unique behavior of the species, specimens that are collected are rarely adequate for molecular work. Adults emerge from the ground after rain, and as such are rarely caught live. Instead, specimens are mostly caught in pitfall traps filled with a preservative substance that degrades DNA. Some of the species of this genus have had their DNA sequenced, showing that morphological species are distinct at cytochrome oxidase I. Sequencing also reveals distinct lineages, for which no adult male specimens have been collected.

Behaviour

Live most of their life underground in soil and only emerge to mate after heavy rain.

Method of reproduction

Sexual

Habitat

Terrestrial

Found in gullies and drainage lines.

Distribution

Karijini National Park.