Phrynus barbadensis

Description

Captive bred 2nd to 3rd instar whipsiders of a species that is uncommonly offered. Whipspan is around 1.25 to 1.5 inches, while the body of them measures around 6 or so millimeters (pedipalps closed). $23 each. Not really a beginner’s species as they require small prey and a slightly moist habitat with vertical/angled climbing/molting structures.

These elusive arachnids are neither spider, nor scorpion. Whipspiders rely on vibration and touch to perceive the world around them. Two legs have evolved into “feelers”. These antennae-like structures detect prey. Like scorpions, they have two claw-like appendages for grasping live prey.

Truly one of the most unusual bugs, and they’re non-venomous.

The Phrynus barbadensis Barbados Whipspider is very simliar to our Florida Phrynus marginemaculatus but larger as shown for comparison in the photo of two adult specimens. I rarely have the former, while the latter is in stock about 50% of the time.