Variability of morphometric characters and sexual dimorphism of Galeodes araneoides (Pallas, 1772) (Arachnida, Solifugae, Galeodidae) in Eastern Transcaucasia

Using 20 morphometric characteristics and 6 indices, the variability and sexual dimorphism of the camel-spider Galeodes araneoides (Pallas, 1772) from 10 regions of Azerbaijan were studied. The species and sex of the individuals were determined taking into account the key diagnostic features and comparison with the identified materials from the collection fund of the Institute of Zoology of Azerbaijan National Academy of Sciences. The variability of the general dimensions of the body and its individual parts (a total of 14 signs) was revealed. It was found that sexual dimorphism, manifested by 9 traits and 3 indices, is expressed to varying degrees in individuals from different regions: less pronounced – in mid-mountainous and low-mountainous regions; more pronounced – in foothill, plain and low-lying regions. The analysis of interpopulation variability of morphometric characters did not reveal clear geographical patterns: among representatives of both sexes, significant differences in the complex of characters were observed between individuals of samples located in relative proximity to each other, while individuals from distant samples were morphologically more similar. The manifestation of the variability of morphometric characters and sexual dimorphism is presumably less connected with the geographical features of the regions, and more connected with the existing ecological conditions. The variability of morphometric characters among individuals of the studied populations indicates a high ecological plasticity and a significant adaptive potential of the species.