Researchers have captured a pseudoscorpion hitching a ride on a real scorpion, the first time the hitchhiking between species has been observed in the world. The pseudoscorpion, also known as the "false" scorpion - perhaps a little unfairly, as it is a small arachnid that is half as similar in appearance as its larger scorpion namesake. They have scorpion-like pincer-like claws (feet) but lack the distinctive stinging tail. Moreover, they are only 2 to 8 millimeters long and have developed some ingenious ways of traveling.

In fact, more than 20 species are known to secretly ride on the backs of flies, beetles, birds, and bats to disperse over wide areas. This natural method of transportation is called "phoresy", just like mites riding on insects or even humans on horseback. It is an efficient and energy-saving symbiotic way for species to make up for their own shortcomings.

During a seven-year study in Israel, which included more than 1,000 observations of Birulatusisraelensis scorpions, only two instances of Nannowithiuswahrmani pseudoscorpions were observed riding on their larger cousins.

It’s not a luxury trip, but it still offers great views. Warburg et al./Hebrew University of Jerusalem

Oddly, the two scorpion "Ubers" were photographed at the same time in late spring in different years, when the Israeli scorpion was following the ant's tracks from the habitat it shared with the Mesore ants. Researchers at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem found that some pseudoscorpions remained attached to the backs of scorpions for more than three weeks, and in one case four tiny insects remained in the passenger seat even after the scorpion transporting them died. This suggests that the pseudoscorpions are waiting for a cue, such as passing a suitable habitat, and they will "abandon the car and drive away."

The scientists also believe that as the ants increase their foraging activity and lay out more complex tracks, both scorpions and pseudoscorpions have the opportunity to find new nests, which may trigger specific times for the ants to travel.

Although it is not known when "crawling" was developed by pseudoscorpions, it seems that they definitely don't like to walk on their eight legs. There is evidence that crawling evolved at least five times among different species. Since the cyclists known as "Eaters" don't negatively affect their host vehicles, we can only assume their Uber ratings hover around 5 stars.

The research was published in the journal Zoological Letters.