Description

• Chthonius is a genus of pseudoscorpions in the family Chthoniidae. These tiny arachnids resemble miniature scorpions but lack a tail and stinging apparatus. They have flattened bodies, two pairs of pincer-like pedipalps, and four pairs of walking legs. Many species are pale yellow, tan, or reddish-brown and are difficult to see without close examination.

Range

• Chthonius is present in Zihuatanejo, Guerrero, Mexico. The genus has a broad distribution, with species occurring in Europe, Asia, North America, and other regions. Individual species often have more restricted ranges.

Habitat

• Members of Chthonius commonly inhabit moist, sheltered microhabitats, including leaf litter, soil, beneath stones, under bark, and within decaying wood. Some species live in caves or other dark, humid environments. They generally avoid exposed, dry surfaces and are often overlooked because of their small size.

Diet

• Chthonius species are predators that feed on tiny invertebrates, including mites, springtails, insect larvae, and other small arthropods. They use their pincers to capture prey and may inject venom through structures in the pedipalps. They help regulate populations of small soil-dwelling organisms