Juvenile solifuges have rarely been observed hunting in natural conditions. We recorded the hunting behavior of juvenile third or fourth instar solifuges of the genus Chanbria (Eremobatidae) near lanterns set up in the Imperial Sand Dunes, Imperial County, California. At least 10 juveniles were observed between 22:50 and 01:40 h on 18–19 June 2010. The behavior consisted of nearly constant movement, abrupt stops or retreats, and quick excavation of the sand. The juveniles probed the sand using their pedipalps. One juvenile was observed to dig up an immature Hemiptera from just beneath the surface amidst the sand grains. Direct contact with other solifuges or arthropods occasionally triggered an immediate flight response.
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1 April 2011
Observations on hunting behavior of juvenile Chanbria (Solifugae: Eremobatidae)
Kyle R. Conrad,
Paula E. Cushing
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The Journal of Arachnology
Vol. 39 • No. 1
April 2011
Vol. 39 • No. 1
April 2011
camel spiders
predation
solifugids