Range:

This species of whipscorpion ranges in the southern United States, particularly Florida and the Southwest.  

Habitat:

These arachnids are generally found under logs or burrowing in the sand.  

Size/weight/longevity:

The vinegarone reaches a body length of 40 to 80 mm and is the largest species in the order. It has an elongated body, which is slightly flattened and a slender segmented tail that is about as long as the body.  

Coloration:

The body is black with a purplish tint.  

Habits:

The vinegarone has powerful pedipalps in the front of its body in addition to four pairs of legs. The first pair of legs is slender and used as feelers. The three hind pairs are used for walking.

Whipscorpions are nocturnal and predaceous. When disturbed, or when attacking its prey, the vinegarone sprays a substance from the gland at the base of its tail that has a vinegar-like odor. This substance has acetic acid and a solvent that attacks the exoskeleton of insects.  

Diet:

Whipscorpions feed on insects, primarily roaches.  

Reproduction/gestation:

The female carries her 20 to 35 eggs in a membranous sac under her abdomen. After the young hatch they ride on the mother's back until their first molt at which time they become independent.  

Similar species:

Whipscorpions are in the Order Uropygi which contains approximately 85 species. In addition to being found in the southern United States they are also native to Central and South America, Asia and the East Indies.

Although they resemble true scorpions, they have no stinger. Whipscorpions are arachnids and, therefore, related to spiders with which they are believed to share a common ancestor.  

Wild status:

No information was available on the status of the vinegarone in Florida; however, it is considered a beneficial species due to its predation of insects, particularly roaches.  

General Comments:

Because the vinegarone does not have a poison gland or stinger, it can be handled. It is capable of pinching with its pedipalps, however, and it may emit its vinegar substance at any time, so beware!