Vaejovis, C. L. Koch, 1836

Mcwest, Kari J., 2009, Tarsal spinules and setae of vaejovid scorpions (Scorpiones: Vaejovidae), Zootaxa 2001, pp. 1-126 : 53-80

Genus VAEJOVIS C.L. Koch

n = 38/75

The genus Vaejovis comprises five species groups raised and diagnosed by various authors and named after the following species: eusthenura ( Williams 1968, 1970), intrepidus ( Hoffmann 1931; Sissom 1989), mexicanus ( Hoffmann 1931; Soleglad 1973), nitidulus (Sissom 1985, 1991; Sissom & Francke 1985), and punctipalpi (Williams 1971) . The mexicanus group is problematic and is currently under revision ( Sissom 2000).

Basitarsus: Members of the genus Vaejovis generally have 14–25 setae on the examined surfaces: S, 1–4;

Telotarsus: Total setal complement ranges 11–19: ri, 1–2; rid, 1–2; rit, 1–2; rm, 0–3; rmt, 0–1; rs, 0–2; rst, 0–1; pi, 1–2; pid, 1–2; pit, 1–2; pm, 0–2; pmt, 0–1; ps, 0–1; pst, 1. Spinule series (10–39: mean = 21.36; var = 18.25; sd = 4.27): d s, 2–9 (mean = 3.72; var = 1.66; sd = 1.29); vms, 6–23 (mean = 12.17; var = 7.75; sd = 2.78); bs, 2–13 (mean = 5.47; var = 2.90; sd = 1.70).

I. eusthenura group

n = 13/18

Basitarsus: Members of the eusthenura group have from 15–22 setae on the examined surfaces: S, 2–4; distal lms, 3–4; RS, 1–3; RV, 1–4; DRV, 1–2; V, 2–4; DV, 1. RS spinules, 4–31; RV spinules, 11–56; V spinules are typically absent, exceptions are 1–5 on Vaejovis viscainensis and 8 on V.waueri . The eusthenura group is characterized by having 2–4 (mode = 3) superior and 2–3 (mode = 3; rarely 1) retrosuperior setae on the basitarsus (compare Syntropis with 2 and 3, respectively). The retrosuperiors superficially appear to be part of the superior series, however, they follow the line of the retrosuperior carina and spinules plus they are angled retrolaterally—albeit sometimes only slightly—from the superior setae. A distal minor retrosuperior, on the retrosuperior carina and between the distal superior and superomedian setae, is present on most adult specimens examined. On V. viscainensis a minor seta is positioned slightly before the superomedian instead of more adjacent to the DRS. The basitarsus has 17–22 (mode = 19) major setae, with 15–16 on the diminutive V. waueri , 1 beyond the distal ventral spinule.

Telotarsus: Total setal complement ranges 13–19: ri, 1 (2 in V. eusthenura ); rid, 1–2; rit, 1–2; rm, 1 (3 on V. spinigerus [Wood]); rmt, 1 (0 on V. diazi ); rs, 1 (0–1 on V. waueri , 2 on V. gravicaudus Williams ); rst, 1; pi, 1; pid, 1; pit, 1–2; pm, 0–2; pmt, 1 (0–1 on V. waueri ); ps, 1 (0–1 on V. waueri ); pst, 1. Spinule series (17–35: mean = 22.40; var = 13.26; sd = 3.64): d s, 2–6 (mean = 4.23; var = 0.84; sd = 0.92); vms, 8–21 (mean = 12.29; var = 6.57; sd = 2.56); bs, 3–13 (mean = 5.88; var = 3.67; sd = 1.92).

Vaejovis waueri , a small species reaching about 20 mm, has relatively fewer basitarsal setae (15 total, compared to 17–22) and telotarsal setae (13 total, compared to 14–19). When the spinule data of V. waueri are removed from the rest of the group’s statistics, however, there is no significant change. Whether the lower setal counts are a result of reduced adult size remains to be seen.

Vaejovis bilineatus Pocock

No major individual differences of basitarsus setal counts were observed except for an accessory seta among the distal retroventral series. Only Vaejovis puritanus Gertsch possesses an accessory seta in the DRV. Vaejovis bilineatus differs from V. puritanus in having 3 (instead of 2) retrosuperior setae.

Vaejovis bilineatus has 1 retroinferior terminal seta on the telotarsus, as do V. vittatus Williams , V. waueri , and the juvenile of V. confusus Stahnke. The occasional V. coahuilae has a single rit (see below). It differs from V. vittatus in having 1 promedial seta on the telotarsus (instead of 2); on the basitarsus there are 3 retrosuperior setae (instead of 2) and 3 ventral setae (instead of 4). It differs from V. waueri in having 3 each superior, retroventral, and ventral setae (instead of 2) on the basitarsus.

Basitarsus: Setae (17): S, 3; DSM, 1; DPS, 1; DRS, 1; RS, 3; RV, 3; DRV, 2+ 1 m; V, 3; DV, 1. Spinules (28): RS, 12; RV, 15; V, 1.

Telotarsus: Setae (14): ri, 1; rid, 1; rit, 1; rm, 1; rmt, 1; rs, 1; rst, 1; pi, 1; pid, 1; pit, 1; pm, 1; pmt, 1; ps, 1; pst, 1. Spinules (19): ds, 5; vms, 11; bs (arc), 3.

Specimens examined: MEXICO: Tamaulipas: Los Ebanos , 1 f ( WDS) .

Vaejovis coahuilae Williams

( Figs. 143–152)

The possession of 1 or 2 retroinferior terminal setae is variable; when 1 rit is present, there is always a very fine accessory seta adjacent to the major seta. Specimens from all localities exhibit this variation, with a mode of 2 rit present. The relative counts of basitarsal accessory setae (counts in parentheses) are also variable. Figures 149–152 show differences in setal positions during a life history study (Sissom et al. 2005).

Basitarsus: Setae (16–19): S, 2–3 (0–3 m); DSM, 1 (0–1 m); DPS, 1; DRS, 1; RS, 2–3 (0–1 m); RV, 3–4 (0–2 m); DRV, 2; V, 3; DV, 1. Spinules (19–29): RS, 5–15; RV, 14–23; V, 0–1.

Telotarsus: Setae (14–15): ri, 1; rid, 1; rit, 1–2 (2); rm, 1; rmt, 1; rs, 1; rst, 1; pi, 1; pid, 1; pit, 1; pm, 1; pmt, 1; ps, 1; pst, 1. Spinules (19–25): ds, 4–6 (4); vms, 10–14 (13); bs (arc), 4–7 (4, 6).

Specimens examined: NEW MEXICO: Lea County, numerous females, males, and localities ( WDS) . TEXAS: Nolan County: 6 mi S Sweetwater , 1 m ( WDS) ; Randall County: near entrance to Camp Don Harrington BSA Reserve , abt 7 mi ENE Canyon, 1 m, 2 subadult m ( KJM) , Palo Duro Canyon State Park , 1 f ( WTAMU) ; Upton County: near Crane ( WDS) .

Vaejovis confusus Stahnke

See Vaejovis waeringi account for discussion on the diagnoses of Vaejovis confusus and related species. Basitarsus: Setae (17): S, 2; DSM, 1; DPS, 1; DRS, 1; RS, 2; RV, 4; DRV, 2; V, 3; DV, 1. Spinules: RS, 8;

RV, 17; V, 1.

Telotarsus: Setae (14): ri, 1; rid, 1; rit, 1; rm, 1; rmt, 1; rs, 1; rst, 1; pi, 1; pid, 1; pit, 1; pm, 1; pmt, 1; ps, 1; pst, 1. Spinules: ds, 5; vms, 13; bs (loop), 7.

Specimens examined: ARIZONA: Pima County: Tucson , 1 juvenile m ( WDS) .

Vaejovis diazi Williams

Vaejovis diazi diazi Williams

( Figs. 153–157)

The distal RS is a minor seta on both specimens examined for setal and basitarsal counts (1 adult female, 1 subadult male). The adult specimen has 2 minor setae among the retroventral series.

Vaejovis diazi diazi differs from all other eusthenura group species examined except V. gravicaudus in having 2 (instead of 1) major distal prosuperior setae on the basitarsus. It has 2 proinferior terminal setae on the telotarsus, a character it shares only with V. eusthenura and V. spinigerus , and some specimens of V. vis-

Basitarsus: Setae (20): S, 3; DSM, 1; DPS, 2; DRS, 1; RS, 3; RV, 4; DRV, 2; V, 3; DV, 1. Spinules (80, 50): RS, 30, 13; RV, 50, 36; V, 0, 1.

Telotarsus: Setae (14, 15): ri, 1; rid, 1; rit, 2; rm, 1; rmt, 0; rs, 1; rst, 1; pi, 1; pid, 1; pit, 2; pm, 0, 1; pmt, 1; ps, 1; pst, 1. Spinules (23–31: mean = 25.86; var = 7.55; sd = 2.75): ds, 4–5 (mean = 4.43; var = 0.24; sd = 0.49); vms, 12–17 (mean = 13.57; var = 2.53; sd = 1.59); bs, 6–11 (mean = 7.86; var = 2.41; sd = 1.55).

Specimens examined: MEXICO: Baja California Sur: Isla Espiritu Santo , 6 f, 1 subadult m ( WDS) .

Vaejovis eusthenura (Wood)

( Fig. 2)

One or 2 minor setae positioned slightly prolaterally interrupt the superior series of the basitarsus resulting in a count that could be read 2+ 2 m +2, but to be consistent with other descriptions the formula is 4+ 2 m. One female had 2 accessory setae (RMA) on the retrolateral surface.

Basitarsus: Setae (17–19): S, 4+ 1–2 m; DSM, 1; DPS, 1–1+ 1 m; DRS, 1–1+ 1 m; RS, 1–2; RV, 3+ 2 m –4+ 1 m; DRV, 2; V, 3–3+ 1 m; DV, 1. Spinules (46–49): RS, 15–18; RV, 31–40; V, 0–1.

Telotarsus: Setae (17): ri, 2; rid, 1; rit, 2; rm, 1–1+ 1 m; rmt, 1; rs, 1; rst, 1; pi, 1; pid, 1; pit, 2; pm, 1; pmt, 1; ps, 1; pst, 1. Spinules (19–28: mean = 23.43; var = 13.39; sd = 3.66): ds, 4–5 (mean = 4.29; var = 0.20; sd = 0.45); vms, 8–15 (mean = 11.86; var = 7.27; sd = 2.70); bs, 5–9 (mean = 7.29; var = 1.92; sd = 1.39).

Specimens examined: MEXICO: Baja California Sur: Los Cabos International Airport , 2 f, 4 m ( WDS), 11.3 km N Santa Anita, 1 m ( WDS) .

Vaejovis globosus Borelli

( Fig. 158)

Vaejovis globosus is very similar in morphology to V. coahuilae , however, the basitarsus of this psammophilic species is laterally compressed and the superior, retrosuperior, and superomedian series form a bristlecomb of 5 setae. Among the known Vaejovis species , only V. viscainensis , also a psammophile, has such a bristlecomb.

Basitarsus: Setae (17): S, 2, 2+ 1 m; DSM, 1; DPS, 1, 1+ 1 m; DRS, 1, 1+ 1 m; RS, 2, 2+ 1 m; RV, 3, 4+ 1 m; DRV, 2; V, 3; DV, 1. Spinules (34, 36): RS, 9, 10; RV, 23, 25; V, 2, 1.

Telotarsus: Setae (15, 14): ri, 1; rid, 1; rit, 2; rm, 1, 0; rmt, 1; rs, 1; rst, 1; pi, 1; pid, 1; pit, 1; pm, 1; pmt, 1; ps, 1; pst, 1. Spinules (19–22): ds, 3–4; vms, 11–13; bs (arc), 4–6.

Specimens examined: TEXAS: Presidio County: Big Bend Ranch State Park, Arenosa Campground on Rio Grande , 1 f , Colorado Campground on Rio Grande , 3 m ( WTAMU) .

Vaejovis gravicaudus Williams

( Fig. 159–163)

The illustrated male, from which were taken setal and basitarsal counts, from near Mulegé, Baja California Sur, Mexico (WDS), had 1 minor seta in the location of the mid–retrosuperior seta, not unlike Vaejovis diazi diazi , and 3 situated among the retroventral series. The inferior distal setae on the telotarsus are situated near the inferior terminal setae. Vaejovis gravicaudus differs from all other members of the group except V. diazi diazi in having 2 major distal prosuperior setae on the basitarsus. It further differs from all other members in having 2 (instead of 1) retrosuperior setae on the telotarsus.

Basitarsus: Setae (22): S, 3; DSM, 1; DPS, 2; DRS, 1; RS, 3; RV, 5; DRV, 2; V, 4; DV, 1. Spinules (55): RS, 23; RV, 32; V, 0.

Telotarsus: Setae (16): ri, 1; rid, 1; rit, 2; rm, 1; rmt, 1; rs, 2; rst, 1; pi, 1; pid, 1; pit, 1; pm, 1; pmt, 1; ps, 1; pst, 1. Spinules (19–26): ds, 4; vms, 10–16; bs, 4–7.

Specimens examined: MEXICO: Baja California Sur: near Mulegé , 1 m ( WDS), Juncalito, 3 f ( WDS) .

Vaejovis hoffmanni Williams

Vaejovis hoffmanni hoffmanni Williams

Basitarsus: Setae (17): S, 3; DSM, 1–1+ 1 m; DPS, 1+ 1 m; DRS, 1–1+ 1 m; RS, 2+ 1 m –2+ 2 m; RV, 3+ 2 m; DRV, 2; V, 3; DV, 1. Spinules (10–22): RS, 4–10; RV, 5–11; V, 1.

Telotarsus: Setae (15): ri, 1; rid, 1; rit, 2; rm, 1; rmt, 1; rs, 1; rst, 1; pi, 1; pid, 1; pit, 1; pm, 1; pmt, 1; ps, 1; pst, 1. Spinules (18, 22): ds, 3, 4; vms, 10, 15; bs, 5, 7.

Specimens examined: MEXICO: Baja California Sur: 46.7 km W San Ignacio, 2 f, 2 m ( WDS), San Ignacio , 1 f ( WDS) .

Vaejovis puritanus Gertsch

( Figs. 164–168)

This species is polymorphic and was at one time considered three allopatric species, Vaejovis puritanus , V. schwenkmeyeri Williams , and V. terradomus Williams. Williams (1980: 69) subsequently synonymized them and referred to the three as geographic races of V. puritanus . Several specimens each of the “ puritanus race” (n = 3, from southern California) and the “ terradomus race” (n = 7, from Baja California Sur, Mexico) were available for study. Differences between the two races are minor and include higher basitarsus retroventral spinule counts and telotarsal basal spinule counts on the “ terradomus race”, keeping in mind the small sample sizes available. Combined telotarsal spinule data of the two races are: total telotarsal III spinules, 20–35 (mean = 26.40; var = 17.44; sd = 4.18); ds, 3–6 (mean = 4.90; var = 1.09; sd = 1.04); vms, 10–21 (mean = 15.20; var = 9.36; sd = 3.06); bs, 5–9 (mean = 6.30; var = 3.01; sd = 1.73).

Vaejovis puritanus (“ puritanus race”)

Telotarsal setal counts are identical. All spinule counts are slightly lower than those of the “ terradomus race.” Setal counts fall within the range of the “ terradomus race”.

Basitarsus: Setae (18, 19): S, 2+ 2 m, 3+ 1 m; DSM, 1+ 1 m; DPS, 1; DRS, 1; RS, 2; RV, 4+ 2 m, 4+ 4 m; DRV, 2; V, 4; DV, 1. Spinules (43, 49): RS, 9, 17; RV, 33, 31; V, 1.

Telotarsus: Setae (15): ri, 1; rid, 1; rit, 2; rm, 1; rmt, 1; rs, 1; rst, 1; pi, 1; pid, 1; pit, 1; pm, 1; pmt, 1; ps, 1; pst, 1; Spinules (20–28): ds, 4–6 (6); vms, 10–17; bs, 4–5 (5).

Specimens examined: CALIFORNIA: Riverside County: Moreno Valley , 1 m ( UCR) , Riverside , 1 m ( UCR) . San Diego County: Oceanside , 1 m ( UCR) .

Vaejovis puritanus (“ terradomus race”)

( Figs. 164–168)

2–2+ 1 m; V, 3–4; DV, 1. Spinules (58–72): RS, 17–28; RV, 39–49; V, 1.

Telotarsus: Setae (15): ri, 1; rid, 1; rit, 2; rm, 1; rmt, 1; rs, 1; rst, 1; pi, 1; pid, 1; pit, 1; pm, 1; pmt, 1; ps, 1; pst, 1; Spinules (24–35: mean = 23.14; var = 12.41; sd = 3.52): ds, 3–6 (mean = 4.71; var = 1.06; sd = 1.03); vms, 13–21 (mean = 16.14; var = 6.69; sd = 2.59); bs, 5–9 (mean = 7.00; var = 2.57; sd = 1.60).

Specimens examined: MEXICO: Baja California Sur: Juncalito , 1 f, 5 m ( WDS), Puerto Escondidio, 1 m ( WDS) .

Vaejovis spinigerus (Wood)

( Figs. 5, 169–173)

Setal counts vary within this species. Some specimens of Vaejovis spinigerus differ from other members of the eusthenura group in having up to 2 retroinferior distal setae (e.g., the sample from Camp Verde and the SEM specimen in Figure 2 from Greenlee County, Arizona) and up to 3 retromedial setae (e.g., the illustrated sample from Alamos) on the telotarsus. The sample from San Carlos Bay has lower telotarsal setal counts. The species warrants a more thorough investigation to study geographic variation.

Basitarsus: Setae (19–20): S, 3; DSM, 1; DPS, 1–2; DRS, 1–2; RS, 2–3; RV, 4–4+ 1 m, DRV, 2; V, 3, DV, 1. Spinules (30–69): RS, 13–31; RV, 17–38; V, 0–1.

Telotarsus: Setae (19): ri, 1; rid, 1–2; rit, 2; rm, 1–3; rmt, 1–1+ 1 m; rs, 1; rst, 1; pi, 1; pid, 1; pit, 1–2; pm, 1; pmt, 1; ps, 0–1; pst, 1. Spinules (18–22: mean = 19.91; var = 2.26; sd = 1.50): ds, 4–6 (mean = 4.45; var =

0.43; sd = 0.66); vms, 8–12 (mean = 9.55; var = 1.34; sd = 1.16); bs, 4–8 (mean = 5.91; var = 1.72; sd = 1.31).

Geronimo Pass, Peloncillo Mtns, 1 f, 2 m (KJM, WDS); Greenlee County: Along Eagle Creek near Honeymoon Camp, 1 f (SEM study: KJM); Pima County: Madera Canyon, Santa Rita Mtns, 3 m (FMNH); Yavapai County: Camp Verde, 1 f (FMNH). MEXICO: Sonora: Alamos, 3 f, 3 m (WDS); San Carlos Bay, Guaymas, 2 f, 3 m (WDS).

Vaejovis viscainensis Williams

( Figs. 174–178)

Vaejovis viscainensis lives in sandy habitats and has a bristlecomb on the laterally compressed basitarsus, similar to V. globosus . It has 1–5 ventral spinules on the basitarsus while other members of the group (except V. waueri with 8) have up to 2 spinules.

Basitarsus: Setae (17–21): S, 2+ 1 m –3; DSM, 1–1+ 1 m; DPS, 1; DRS, 1–2; RS, 1–3; RV, 4+ 2 m; DRV, 2; V, 4–4+ 1 m; DV, 1. Spinules (53–80): RS, 14–26; RV, 36–56; V, 1–5.

Telotarsus: Setae (15–16): ri, 1; rid, 1; rit, 2; rm, 1; rmt, 1; rs, 1; rst, 1; pi, 1; pid, 1; pit, 1–2 (1); pm, 1; pmt, 1; ps, 1; pst, 1; Spinules (24–31: mean = 26.50; var = 5.58; sd = 2.36): ds, 2–5 (mean = 3.67; var = 0.89; sd = 0.94); vms, 10–18 (mean = 14.50; var = 5.92; sd = 2.43); bs (loop), 4–13 (mean = 8.33; var = 9.22; sd = 3.04).

Specimens examined: MEXICO: Baja California Sur: Guerrero Negro , 3 f, 2 m ( WDS), 1 subadult f, 1 m

(FSCA).

Vaejovis vittatus Williams

( Figs. 179–184)

Vaejovis vittatus differs from most members of the group in having 1 (instead of 2) retroinferior terminal setae on the telotarsus. This character is shared with V. bilineatus and V. waueri (and the juvenile specimen of V. confusus ) and is expressed in some specimens of V. coahuilae (see that account for discussion). It differs from all other members of the group except V. waueri (with 1 or 2; mode = 1) in having 2 (instead of 1) promedial seta on the telotarsus.

Basitarsus: Setae (17–18): S, 2–3; DSM, 1; DPS, 1; DRS, 1; RS, 2+ 1 m; RV, 3, DRV, 2; V, 4; DV, 1. Spinules (31): RS, 11; RV, 20; V, 0.

Telotarsus: Setae (15): ri, 1; rid, 1; rit, 1; rm, 1; rmt, 1; rs, 1; rst, 1; pi, 1; pid, 1; pit, 1; pm, 2; pmt, 1; ps, 1; pst, 1. Spinules (18–24: mean = 20.25; var = 3.44; sd = 1.85): ds, 4; vms, 9–15 (mean = 11.50; var = 3.00; sd = 1.73); bs (loop), 4–6 (mean = 4.75; var = 0.44; sd = 0.66).

Specimens examined: MEXICO: Baja California Sur: near Puerto Escondido , 1 f, 2 m ( WDS) ; Los Barriles , 1 f ( WDS) ; Punta Coyote , 3 f ( WDS) ; San Miguel Comondú , 1 paratype f, 1 paratype m ( FSCA) .

Vaejovis waeringi Williams

( Figs. 185–189)

Banks and V. waeringi Williams ), such as whether they are “races” of one species with a rather large distribution or a collection of species (including several undescribed forms: J.L. Bigelow, pers. comm. 1996). The diagnoses of these species ( Williams 1970, 1980) and a published key (Williams 1980: 55) have proven the determination of material from California difficult. Use of these sources in identifying the adult specimens from San Bernardino County, California, suggest that they are referable to V. waeringi , which has previously been reported in California only from Imperial County ( Williams 1970, 1980). Specimens from other localities also outside of the reported range of V. waeringi in southern California were subadults, and morphometric characters used to distinguish V. confusus and V. waeringi can not be reliable (Sissom 1991b). Other specimens not examined for this study are now known from the Central Valley of California. It is best at this time to designate the other California specimens as V. confusus / waeringi ( Tables 1, 2).

Basitarsus: Setae (16–19): S, 2+ 1 m; DSM, 1; DPS, 1; DRS, 1–1+ 1 m; RS, 2–2+ 1 m; RV, 3+ 2 m –4+ 1 m; DRV, 2; V, 3–4; DV, 1. Spinules (33–53): RS, 8 (1 subadult), 13–23; RV, 19–29; V, 0–1.

Telotarsus: Setae (15–16): ri, 1; rid, 1; rit, 2; rm, 1; rmt, 1; rs, 1; rst, 1; pi, 1; pid, 1; pit, 1–2; pm, 1; pmt, 1; ps, 1; pst, 1. Spinules (17–23: mean = 20.75; var = 3.69; sd = 1.92): ds, 3–6 (mean = 4.00; var = 0.50; sd = 0.71); vms, 10–15 (mean = 12.00; var = 1.83; sd = 1.35); bs (loop), 3–7 (mean = 4.75; var = 1.19; sd = 1.09).

Specimens examined: CALIFORNIA: Inyo County: White Hills , China Lake Naval Res., 1 f, 3 m ( GP) , Owens Lake , 1 juv. f ( GP) ; Riverside County: Riverside , 1 subadult f ( UCR) ; San Bernardino County: Peak 1876, Fort Irwin Mil. Res., 1 m ( GP) , Sweeney Granite Mountains Reserve , 1 f, 2 subadult f, 1 m ( UCR) .

Vaejovis waueri Gertsch & Soleglad

( Figs. 11, 190–196)

This species is among the smallest (adults average 20–25 mm) of the genus, and certainly of the eusthenura group. Lower setal numbers may be a result of reduced size.

The basitarsus has 15–16 setae which is considerably lower than the range of 17–20 for the rest of the group. The major differences are 2 each retroventral and ventral setae (instead of 3–5 RV, and 3–4 V). Vaejovis waueri also has 8 ventral spinules on the basitarsus, whereas the modes for the group are 0–1.

The telotarsal setal complement totals 13 on each specimen, which differs from the rest of the group’s range of 14–17. Setae on the prolateral surface of the telotarsus vary in number.

Basitarsus: Setae (15–16): S, 2; DSM, 1; DPS, 1; DRS, 1; RS, 3; RV, 2 (1 m); DRV, 2; V, 2; DV, 1. Spinules (26–30): RS, 5–6; RV, 13–16; V, 8.

Telotarsus: Setae (13): ri, 1; rid, 1; rit, 1; rm, 1; rmt, 1 (1m); rs, 0–1 (1); rst, 1; pi, 1; pid, 1; pit, 1; pm, 1–2 (1); pmt, 0–1 (1); ps, 0–1 (0); pst, 1. Spinules (18–22: mean = 19.50; var = 1.92; sd = 1.38): ds, 2–4 (mean = 3.67; var = 0.56; sd = 0.75); vms, 10–14 (mean = 11.33; var = 1.89; sd = 1.37); bs (arc), 4–6 (mean = 4.50; var = 0.58; sd = 0.76).

Specimens examined: TEXAS: Brewster County: Casa Grande, Big Bend National Park, 1 f (WDS); Crockett County: abt 10 mi N Iraan, 1 f (KJM); Ector County: 24 mi W Odessa, 1 f (WDS); Pecos County: (WDS); Starr County: Kelsay, 1 f (WDS); Tom Green County: San Angelo, 1 f (KJM); Zapata County: II. intrepidus group

n = 3/3

Basitarsus: Members of the intrepidus group have 18–25 setae on the examined surfaces: S, 2–4 (1 in Vaejovis occidentalis ); distal lms, 3; RS, 2–4 (1–2 in V. intrepidus atrox ); RV, 3–7; DRV, 2–3; V, 3–4; DV, 1–2. Basitarsal spinules, 50–89; RS spinules, 16–33; RV spinules, 19–49; V spinules, 1–22.

Telotarsus: Total setal complement, 15–19: ri, 1; rid, 1–2; rit, 2; rm, 1; rmt, 1; rs, 1; rst, 1; pi, 1–2 (2 in V. occidentalis ); pid, 1–2; pit, 1–2 (1 in V. intrepidus intrepidus ); pm, 1–2; pmt, 1; ps, 1; pst, 1. Spinule series (18–32: mean = 26.81; var = 17.31; sd = 4.16): d s, 4–8 (mean = 6.44; var = 2.00; sd = 1.41); vms, 8–17 (mean = 12.38; var = 5.11; sd = 2.26); bs, 3–9 (mean = 6.94; var = 2.36; sd = 1.54).

Vaejovis intrepidus Thorell

Vaejovis intrepidus intrepidus Thorell

( Figs. 197–203)

The illustrated specimens are the same individuals studied and illustrated by Hoffman (1931: 373, 377; Figs 30–32). They come from opposite coastal states of the Mexican mainland, therefore, I have chosen to separate the counts to better illustrate any differences between the greatly disjunct populations. This species has not been investigated in any detail since 1931.

Basitarsus: Setae (21 [a], 19 [b]): S, 3; DSM, 1; DPS, 1; DRS, 1; RS, 2 (a), 3 (b); RV, 5+ 1 m (a), 3+ 2 m (b); DRV, 3; V, 4+ 1 m (a), 3+ 1 m (b); DV, 1. Spinules (80 [a], 89 [b]): RS, 26 (a), 22 (b); RV, 36 (a), 45 (b); V, 18 (a), 22 (b).

Telotarsus: Setae (15–16 [a], 16 [b]): ri, 1; rid, 1–1+ 1 m (a), 2 (b); rit, 2; rm, 1; rmt, 1; rs, 1; rst, 1; pi, 1; pid, 1–2 (a), 1 (b); pit, 1+ 1 m; pm, 1; pmt, 1; ps, 1; pst, 1. Spinules (26–28): ds, 5–7 (a), 8 (b); vms, 13–15 (13); bs, 6–8 (6).

Specimens examined: MEXICO: Colima: [a] Tecomán 1 f, 1 m ( AMNH) ; Veracruz: [b] Jalapa , 1 f, 1 m

(AMNH).

Vaejovis intrepidus atrox Hoffmann

( Figs. 204–208)

Basitarsus: Setae (18–19): S, 2–3; DSM, 1; DPS, 1; DRS, 1–1+ 1 m; RS, 1–2; RV, 4–4+ 3 m; DRV, 3; V, 4; DV, 1.

pmt, 1; ps, 1; pst, 1. Spinules (20–25): mean = 22.60; var = 5.04; sd = 2.24): ds, 4–6 (mean = 5.00; var = 0.80; sd = 0.89); vms, 11–13 (mean = 12.20; var = 0.96; sd = 0.98); bs, 5–6 (mean = 5.40; var = 0.24; sd = 0.49).

Specimens examined: MEXICO: Colima: 5–10 mi S & SW Colima, 3 f, 2 m ( AMNH) .

Vaejovis intrepidus cristimanus Pocock

( Figs. 209–213)

Vaejovis intrepidus cristimanus differs from all other members of the intrepidus group in having 7 retroventral setae and 2 distal ventral setae on the basitarsus.

Basitarsus: Setae (23): S, 3; DSM, 1; DPS, 1; DRS, 1; RS, 2; RV, 7; DRV, 2; V, 4; DV, 2. Spinules (56): RS, 16; RV, 49; V, 1.

Telotarsus: Setae (18): ri, 1; rid, 2; rit, 2; rm, 1; rmt, 1; rs, 1; rst, 1; pi, 1; pid, 1; pit, 2; pm, 2; pmt, 1; ps, 1; pst, 1. Spinules (28): ds, 7; vms, 15; bs, 6 (loop).

Specimens examined: MEXICO: Jalisco: Chapala (Chula Vista), 1 f ( WDS) .

Vaejovis occidentalis Hoffmann

( Figs. 214–218)

atrox and 3 or more in others) on the basitarsus and 2 proinferior setae (instead of 1) on the telotarsus. Retrolateral setal positions on the telotarsus vary among specimens ( Figs. 214, 215).

Basitarsus: Setae (20–21): S, 1–2; DSM, 1; DPS, 1; DRS, 1; RS, 3; RV, 5+ 1m –5+ 2m; DRV, 3; V, 4; DV, 1. Spinules (88): RS, 33; RV, 43; V, 12.

Telotarsus: Setae (18–19): ri, 1–1+ 1m; rid, 1–2; rit, 2–2+ 2m; rm, 1; rmt, 1; rs, 1; rst, 1; pi, 2; pid, 2; pit, 2; pm, 1; pmt, 1; ps, 1; pst, 1. Spinules (18–21): ds, 5–7; vms, 8–9; bs (arc), 3–5.

Specimens examined: MEXICO: Guerrero: Tecpan , 1 f, 2 m ( MNHN) .

Vaejovis subcristatus Pocock

( Fig. 219–223)

Vaejovis subcristatus is unique among the intrepidus group species in that it has 24–25 basitarsal setae (instead of fewer than 24). A major difference is that it has 4 retrosuperior setae (instead of 1–3).

Telotarsus: Setae (16–17): ri, 1; rid, 1; rit, 2; rm, 1–1+ 1 m; rmt, 1; rs, 1; rst, 1; pi, 1; pid, 1; pit, 2; pm, 1–2; pmt, 1; ps, 1; pst, 1. Spinules (29–32): ds, 8; vms, 12–17; bs, 7–9.

Specimens examined: MEXICO: Puebla: Tehuacan , 3 f ( MNHN) .

III. mexicanus group

n = 14/24

The mexicanus group is problematic. For a brief overview, please refer to Sissom 2000: 539. In this study, species were found to possess very different setal and spinule counts. Important to note are (a) the distal spinule count of the telotarsus in which some species have 2 ds whereas others have more than 2, and (b) the number of retroventral setae (1, or 2 or more) on the basitarsus.

The telotarsal spinule statistics are as follows: total telotarsus III spinules, 10–39 (mean = 21.49; var =

Vaejovis carolinianus (Beauvois)

( Figs. 224–228)

Differs from other species in the mexicanus group by usually having a single pair of distal spinules on the telotarsus in combination with several accessory setae on the basitarsus, similar to nitidulus group species with which it was placed by Sissom & Francke (1985) but subsequently removed from that group by Sissom (1991) and retained in the mexicanus group ( Sissom 2000).

Specimens from Cherokee County, North Carolina and Taliaferro County, Georgia differ little in general features. Interpopulation differences include an additional superior seta (prolaterally apposing the mid–retrosuperior seta) that was either a major or minor seta or lacking altogether. Both populations also possess 2–3

Basitarsus: Setae: (18–20): S, 1–2; DSM, 1; DPS, 1; DRS, 1; RS, 3; RV, 4–5; DRV, 2; V, 3; DV, 2. Spinules (18–32): RS, 8–15; RV, 8–13; V, 2–4.

Telotarsus: Setae (15–19): ri, 1–2; rid, 1; rit, 1–2; rm, 1–2; rmt, 1; rs, 1; rst, 1; pi, 2; pid, 1; pit, 1; pm, 2; pmt, 1; ps, 0–1; pst, 1. Spinules (10–22: mean = 17.17; var = 4.75; sd = 2.18): ds, 2–4 (mean = 2.26; var = 0.28; sd = 0.53); vms, 9–13 (mean = 10.30; var = 1.69; sd = 1.30); bs, 2–7 (mean = 4.61; var = 1.37; sd = 1.17).

Specimens examined: GEORGIA: Taliaferro County: Crawfordville, 8 f, 1 m (WDS); White County: Cleveland, 1 f (FB: KJM). NORTH CAROLINA: Cherokee County: Murphy, 4 f (FB: KJM), 1 f (WDS). TENNESSEE: Davidson County: Marrowbone Lake, 7 f, 1 m (WDS).

Vaejovis chisos Sissom

( Figs. 229–233)

The setal and spinule counts suggest relationship with Vaejovis sprousei Sissom and V. granulatus Pocock. It is therefore unique among American montane mexicanus group species (with fewer setae and 2 telotarsal distal spinules) in being allied with the more southern Mexican species of the group (with 4 or more telotarsal Spinules (19–35): RS, 7–9; RV, 8–15; V, 5–13.

Telotarsus: Setae (14): ri, 1; rid, 1; rit, 1; rm, 1 m; rmt, 1; rs, 1; rst, 1; pi, 1; pid, 1; pit, 2; pm, 1 m; pmt, 1; ps, 1; pst, 0. Spinules (19–25: mean = 22.40; var = 4.67; sd = 2.52): ds, 4; vms, 11–16 (mean = 14; var = 3.2; sd = 1.79); bs, 4–5 (mean =4.4; var = 0.24; sd = 0.49).

Specimens examined: TEXAS: Brewster County: Pine Canyon , Chisos Mtns , BBNP, 3 f, 2 m ( ASU) .

Vaejovis granulatus Pocock

( Figs. 234–239)

Basitarsus: Setae (17): S, 1; DSM, 1; DPS, 1; DRS, 1; RS, 2; RV, 4; DRV, 2; V, 4; DV, 1. Spinules (36): RS, 6; RV, 19; V, 11.

Telotarsus: Setae (15): ri, 2; rid, 1; rit, 1; rm, 1; rmt, 1; rs, 1; rst, 1; pi, 2; pid, 1; pit, 1; pm, 1; pmt, 1; ps, 1 m; pst, 1. Spinules (31): ds, 9; vms, 18; bs, 4.

Specimens examined: MEXICO: Distrito Federal: Mexico City, 1 m ( WDS) .

Vaejovis jonesi Stahnke

( Figs. 240–244)

Vaejovis jonesi was placed in the nitidulus group by Sissom & Francke (1985) but subsequently removed from that group by Sissom (1991) and retained in the mexicanus group ( Sissom 2000).

Specimens examined were in poor condition and the sizes of missing setae were difficult to determine.

Basitarsus: Setae (14): S, 1; DSM, 1; DPS, 1; DRS, 1; RS, 1; RV, 3; DRV, 2; V, 3; DV, 1. Spinules (30): RS, 5; RV, 20; V, 5.

Telotarsus: Setae (13): ri, 1; rid, 1; rit, 1; rm, 1; rmt, 1; rs, 1; rst, 1; pi, 1; pid, 1; pit, 1; pm, 0; pmt, 1; ps, 1; pst, 1. Spinules (21–25): ds, 2–4; vms, 15–16; bs, 4–7 (4).

Specimens examined: ARIZONA: Apache County: Round Rock, 4 f (WDS).

Vaejovis mexicanus C.L. Koch

The type species of the genus, Vaejovis mexicanus is unique among the mexicanus group species in that it has 3–4 retrosuperior setae on the basitarsus (others 1–2). The only other species with similar RS is Pseudouroctonus reddelli with 2+ 2 m. Studies comparing these two species and their groups are in progress (REVSYS 2004).

Vaejovis mexicanus mexicanus C.L. Koch

Basitarsus: Setae (24, 22): S, 2, 3; DSM, 1; DPS, 1, 2; DRS, 2, 1; RS, 4, 3; RV, 6; DRV, 2, 1; V, 5, 4; DV, 1. Spinules (42, 39): RS, 10, 3; RV, 18, 21; V, 14, 15.

Telotarsus: Setae (18, 19): ri, 2; rid, 1; rit, 2; rm, 0, 1; rmt, 1; rs, 2; rst, 1; pi, 2; pid, 1; pit, 2; pm, 2; pmt, 1; ps, 0; pst, 1. Spinules (24–32: mean = 28.27; var = 7.65; sd = 2.77): ds, 3–6 (mean = 4.27; var = 0.56; sd = 0.75); vms, 14–22 (mean = 18.73; var = 6.38; sd = 2.53); bs, 3–7 (mean = 5.27; var = 1.47; sd = 1.21).

Specimens examined: MEXICO: “ Mexique 1910”, 8 f, 1 m ( MNHN) , “ Mexico ”, 1 f ( KJM), 1 m ( WDS) .

Vaejovis mexicanus smithi Pocock

( Figs. 250–254)

Basitarsus: Setae (24): S, 3; DSM, 1; DPS, 2; DRS, 1; RS, 4; RV, 5; DRV, 3; V, 4; DV, 1. Spinules (43): RS, 14; RV, 15; V, 14.

Telotarsus: Setae (15): ri, 2; rid, 1; rit, 1; rm, 2; rmt, 1; rs, 2; rst, 0; pi, 2; pid, 1; pit, 1; pm, 2; pmt, 1; ps, 0; pst, 1. Spinules (39): ds, 4; vms, 23; bs, 12.

Specimens examined: MEXICO: Morelos: Meztitla, Tepoztlán , 1 m ( FSCA) .

Vaejovis monticola Sissom

Basitarsus: Setae (19): S, 2; DSM, 1; DPS, 1; DRS, 2; RS, 2+ 1 m; retromedial accessory (distal), 1; RV, 4+ 3 m; DRV, 2; V, 3+ 2 m; DV, 2. Spinules (24): RS, 7; RV, 11; V, 6.

Telotarsus: Setae (16): ri, 2; rid, 1; rit, 1; rm, 1; rmt, 1; rs, 1+ 1 m (= apical); rst, 1; pi, 2+ 1 m; pid, 1; pit, 1; pm, 1; pmt, 1; ps, 2 m; pst, 1. Spinules (16–19): ds, 2; vms, 10–12; bs, 4–5.

Specimens examined: MEXICO: Jalisco: Chula Vista, Lake Chapala, 1 f ( WDS), Cocula , 1 m ( FMNH) .

Vaejovis paysonensis Soleglad

( Figs. 256–260)

The proximalmost retrosuperior seta on the basitarsus is dark and about half the size of the other setae. It is present on 4 of the 7 specimens examined from the Sierra Ancha Mountains, Gila County, Arizona. Four specimens possess an additional proinferior (including the illustrated specimen) and proinferior subterminal setae on the telotarsus.

Basitarsus: Setae (14–15): S, 1; DSM, 1; DPS, 1; DRS, 1; RS, 1–2; RV, 3; DRV, 2; V, 3; DV, 1. Spinules (2–10): RS, 0–4; RV, 2–6; V, 0.

Telotarsus: Setae (14–16): ri, 1; rid, 1; rit, 1; rm, 1; rmt, 1; rs, 1; rst, 1; pi, 1–2; pid, 1; pit, 1; psub, 0–1; pm, 1; pmt, 1; ps, 1; pst, 1. Spinules (n=4; 18–22): ds, 2; vms, 11–14 (14); bs, 5–6 (5).

Specimens examined: ARIZONA: Gila County: Sierra Ancha Mtns Research Station , 5 f, 2 m ( WDS) .

Vaejovis rossmani Sissom

( Figs. 261–265)

Basitarsus: Setae (17): S, 2; DSM, 1; DPS, 1; DRS, 1; RS, 2; RV, 4; DRV, 2; V, 3; DV, 1. Spinules (41): RS, 4; RV, 18–21; V, 16.

Telotarsus: Setae (14): ri, 2; rid, 1; rit, 1; rm, 0; rmt, 1; rs, 1; rst, 1; pi, 2; pid, 1; pit, 1; pm, 0; pmt, 1; ps, 1; pst, 1. Spinules (n=8; 21–26: mean = 22.38; var = 2.98; sd = 1.73): ds, 3–4 (mean = 3.88; var = 0.11; sd = 0.33); vms, 10–14 (mean = 11.25; var = 1.69; sd = 1.30); bs, 6–9 (mean = 7.25; var = 0.94; sd = 0.97).

Specimens examined: MEXICO: Tamaulipas: Rancho Nuevo , paratypes, 7 f, 1 m ( WDS) .

Vaejovis sprousei Sissom

( Figs. 266–271)

Telotarsus: Setae (16): ri, 2; rid, 1; rit, 1; rm, 1; rmt, 1; rs, 1; rst, 1; pi, 2; pid, 1; pit, 2; pm, 0; pmt, 1; ps, 1; pst, 1;. Spinules (24): ds, 4; vms, 13; bs, 7.

Specimens examined: MEXICO: Nuevo Leon: Cerro Potosí , 1 f ( FSCA) .

Vaejovis vorhiesi Stahnke

( Figs. 272–276)

Basitarsus: Setae (15): S, 1; DSM, 1; DPS, 1; DRS, 1; RS, 1; RV, 4; DRV, 2; V, 3; DV, 1. Spinules (26–33): RS,

9–16; RV, 10; V, 7.

0; ps, 1; pst, 0. Spinules (20–23): ds, 2; vms, 13–14 (14); bs, 5–7.

Specimens examined: ARIZONA: Cochise County: Copper Canyon , Huachuca Mtns , 1 f, 1 m ( FSCA) ,

Miller Canyon, Huachuca Mtns, 1 f (FSCA).