Chelifer

/ˈkɛləfər/ noun

Definition

A pseudoscorpion, a tiny arachnid resembling a scorpion but lacking a tail, belonging to the order Pseudoscorpiones.

Etymology

From Greek 'chele' (claw/pincer) plus Latin 'ferre' (to carry/bear), literally meaning 'claw-bearer.' Named for the prominent pincers on the front of their bodies.

Kelly Says

Pseudoscorpions like chelifers are often called 'book scorpions' because they hide in libraries and old papers hunting mites and insects—they're tiny (1-2mm) predators that have been hitchhiking in human spaces for millennia without most people ever seeing one!

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