Eophrynus

Eophrynus is an extinct genus of trigonotarbid arachnids that lived during the Carboniferous period. Trigonotarbids were an order of extinct arachnids that are considered to be closely related to modern spiders and harvestmen, but possessing features distinct from both.

Eophrynus is characterized by its robust body, divided into a prosoma (cephalothorax) and opisthosoma (abdomen). The prosoma bears the eyes and appendages, including chelicerae (pincers), pedipalps (sensory appendages), and four pairs of walking legs. The opisthosoma is segmented and typically lacks a distinct tail-like structure seen in some other arachnids. Fossil evidence suggests Eophrynus was likely a terrestrial predator or scavenger, preying on other small invertebrates in the Carboniferous coal forests. The fossils of Eophrynus provide valuable insights into the early evolution and diversification of arachnids.