Synsphyronus gracilis
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. 3.5-4.5 mm in length) differs from other species of the genus by the combined presence of separate metatarsi and tarsi, an unconstricted anterior eye, a trichobothrial pattern of 8 on the fixed finger and 3 on the movable finger, and long, slender pedipalps.
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 rocks.
Distribution
This species is found in the southern Pilbara region, WA.
| Kingdom: | Animalia |
|---|---|
| Phylum: | Arthropoda |
| Class: | Arachnida |
| Order: | Pseudoscorpiones |
| Suborder: | Iocheirata |
| Infraorder: | Panctenata |
| Superfamily: | Garypoidea |
| Family: | Garypidae |
| Genus: | Synsphyronus |
| Species: | gracilis |
| Name Published Year: | 1987 |
|---|---|
| Rank: | species |
| Scientific Name Authorship: | Harvey |
| Commercial Impact: | None |
| Conservation Assessment: | Least Concern |
Phylogenetic Tree:
Cite this page
Western Australian Museum Collections https://museum.wa.gov.au/online-collections/names/synsphyronus-gracilis
Accessed 10 Nov 2025
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