Pseudoscorpions

Overview

Pseudoscorpions are an order of the class belonging to arachnida. Thus, pseudoscorpions are joint-legged and are invertebrates. They have four legs and also have relatively large pedipalps, compared to their overall size. Pedipalps are almost like claws, or pinchers. The size of these animals are very small, about 2-8 millimeters in length. [1] Because of their small size, they often go unnoticed, despite the fact that they live in many different environments. Pseudoscorpions are not harmful. In fact, they eat many small arthropods, helping with pest control. There are more than 200 described species; mostly living in the tropics, occupying, bark, nests, and leaf litter. [1]

[2]

Description

• A common house pseudoscorpion is usually between three and four millimeters.
  • Body: 12- segment abdomen, which only 10 are visible. These segments are protected by plates made of chitin.
    • Shape: flat teardrop or pear like shaped body
  • Pedilaps: over twice the length of their legs. If they were completely extended, they would measure about seven to nine millimeters across. [1]
  • Color: mahogany