| Sexing Cercophonius spp A Unique Australian Bothriurid
by © Mark A. Newton 2008
Adelaide, Australia
As juveniles, sexing Cercophonius spp is probably near, if not impossible. There is one distinct sexual dimorphism present in members of this genus as adults and that is the presence of a lump or series of lumps on the inner surface of the chela. The male has these protuberances to more than likely increase his grip during the promenade. They are quite distinct.....take a look.
Penultimate instar - lack of chelal apophysis is clear
The same individual as above one molt later, now an adult instar showing an inner chelal apophysis.
Closeup of the chela showing the apophysis
This article is ©Mark A. Newton, 2008 and cannot be reproduced without the explicit consent of its author.
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