Uropygi
 | |
| Kingdom: | Animalia |
|---|---|
| Subkingdom: | Bilateria |
| Infrakingdom: | Protostomia |
| Superphylum: | Ecdysozoa |
| Phylum: | Arthropoda |
| Subphylum: | Chelicerata |
| Class: | Arachnida |
| Order: | Uropygi |
The arachnid order Uropygi contains organisms more commonly known as whip scorpions or vinegaroons. Although they may be referred to as 'whip scorpions', they are not actually true scorpions (Order Scorpiones). The name 'vinegaroon' was coined off their unique ability to spray a mixture of acetic acid, caprylic acid, and water as a defense mechanism. Vinegar typically consists of 5–20% acetic acid, giving it its recognizable odor. However, the chemical mixture secreted by vinegaroons typically contains up to 83% acetic acid, which can irritate and deter predators[3][4].
Characteristics and Morphology
Reproduction and Life Cycle
Diet and Feeding Behaviors
Distribution
References
- ↑ Integrated Taxonomic Information System (ITIS). n.d. Uropygi. https://www.itis.gov/servlet/SingleRpt/SingleRpt?search_topic=TSN&search_value=82710#null
- ↑ Maltais, B. (2016). The Vinegaroon: A Salad with Frankenstein [Photograph]. https://www.macrophotobug.com/vinageroon-whip-scorpion-arizona/
- ↑ Helmenstinem, A.M. (2019). Vinegar Chemical Formula. ThoughCo. https://www.thoughtco.com/vinegar-chemical-formula-and-facts-608481
- ↑ Smolinske, S.C., S.A. Seifert, B.W. Warrick, & Y. Tadfor. Vinegaroon exposures reported to a Poison center. Toxicon. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0041010122002732