False scorpions are a special order of spiders that differ from true scorpions in that they are not dangerous to humans. Despite their scary appearance, false scorpions are completely harmless and prey on small invertebrates.
There are over a thousand species of false scorpions in the world, most of which live in the tropics. However, the bookish false scorpion (Chelifer cancroides) is a species that lives in urban apartments and is one of the most common inhabitants of our homes. It feeds on book haydogs as well as bread mites, small cockroaches, and other little things that inhabit apartments.
At night, false scorpions can be caught “unawares” in the bathroom or toilet, as they prefer moist air. However, they do not annoy us in any way and do not even weave webs, unlike their distant relatives – spiders.
Besides the “domestic” false scorpions, there are also “wild” false scorpions of the genus Chernes. They usually live under the bark of old trees, where they prey on small local inhabitants. They prefer broadleaf species and are more often found in corky oaks and lindens.
False scorpions are predators that regulate numerous plant-eating species, including pests. They are beneficial to humans because they contribute to the balance of the ecosystem.
In conclusion, it is worth noting that false scorpions are interesting and useful inhabitants of our homes that pose no danger to humans and help maintain ecological balance.
