#galeodes arabs

[animalids]

Egyptian giant solifuge (Galeodes arabs)

Photo by Andy Sombke

[astronomy-to-zoology]

Egyptian Giant Solpugid (Galeodes arabs)

Also known as the Egyptian giant camel spider, the Egyptian giant solpugid is a 'large' (6 in) species of solifugid (camel spider) that is native to northern Africa and parts of the Middle East. Like other solifugids G.arabs is a predator and will feed on insects and small vertebrates, dispatching them with its large chelicerae. Contrary to popular belief solifugids are not exceptionally dangerous and are the source of many false myths. G.arabs is well adapted to desert life and can withstand very harsh environments. To deal with the harsh desert sun G.arabs is nocturnal and will 'rest' in shrubs, buildings, other shaded places during the day.

Phylogeny

Animalia-Arthropoda-Chelicerata-Arachnida-Solifugae-Galeodidae-Galoedes-G.arabs

Images: Micheal & Patricia Fodgen/Corbis and Paul Embden