Chthonius (Chthonius) tetrachelatus, Dimpled-clawed Chthoniid

Chthonius (Chthonius) tetrachelatus, Dimpled-clawed Chthonid
A glossy uniform yellow-brown coloured species with faintly reddish pedipalps and chelicerae; ength of body: 1.3–1.9 mm
Distribution
Europe: Central, E and N Europe, westwards from Italy and southwards from S. Sweden; originally thought to be widespread throughout the British Isles, particularly near the coast where it can  be confused with C. kewi. The latter can be distinguished from C. tetrachelatus  by the  possession of four (usually) posterior marginal setae on the cephalothorax. However, as noted by Legg  (1987) there is considerable variation in this character between and within populations. C. tetrachelatus, sensu strictus, occurs under stones and rocks, in leaf litter and decaying vegetation. It is also asso ciated with synanthropic habitats such as greenhouses, old established gardens, quarries and waste  ground.
For further information see Mark Harvey, Pseudoscorpions of the World.

Chthonius tetrachelatus pedipalp
Pedipalp of tetrachelatus showing 'dimple' characteristic of the sub-genus Ephippiochthonius. This is also present in C. (E.) kewi.

UK & Ireland Distribution Map

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