Solifugida

Solifugida, commonly known as sun spiders or camel spiders, refers to an order of arachnids in the class Arachnida. In modern taxonomy the order is usually called Solifugae, with Solifugida appearing in older or alternative classifications. They inhabit arid and semi-arid regions worldwide, including Africa, the Middle East, parts of Asia, and the Americas such as the southwestern United States and northern Mexico.

Anatomy and morphology: Solifuges have a robust cephalothorax, a relatively large pair of chelicerae used to seize and crush prey, and long, leg-like pedipalps that aid in handling prey. They possess eight legs and multiple eyes arranged on a raised area near the head. They lack spinnerets and silk production and do not possess venom glands. Their bodies are adapted for rapid running, enabling them to chase and capture prey on the ground.

Ecology and behavior: Solifuges are primarily carnivorous and opportunistic, feeding on insects, other arthropods, and occasionally small vertebrates. They are generally terrestrial and most active during warmer periods; many species are crepuscular or diurnal in hot environments to avoid midday heat. They are solitary and defend themselves with their strong chelicerae when threatened.

Reproduction and development: Mating typically involves the male depositing a sperm packet that the female collects. Eggs are laid in soil or leaf litter and hatch into juvenile forms that molt through several stages before reaching adulthood. Life history varies by species, but development is generally completed within a year or more.

Note: Solifugida is an older or alternative spelling; the accepted order name widely used today is Solifugae. They are not venomous to humans, and bites are rare.