Scorpion

Scorpions are predatory arachnids with eight legs, grasping pedipalps, and a segmented tail ending in a venomous stinger.

Scorpions are predatory arachnids with eight legs, grasping pedipalps, and a segmented tail ending in a venomous stinger. About 1,500 species are known worldwide, and most have stings that are painful but not life-threatening to humans.

Classification and anatomy

Scorpions are arachnids with two body regions, pincers, and a tail tipped with a stinger. Their venom is used to subdue prey and as a defense mechanism.

Habitat and distribution

Scorpions are found in many terrestrial habitats around the world, especially warm regions. They shelter under rocks, bark, debris, or inside structures where conditions offer protection and moisture.

Diet and behaviour

Scorpions are carnivores that hunt small animals such as insects and spiders. They typically ambush prey at night and use their pincers and venom to capture and immobilize it.

Danger to humans

Most scorpions are not medically dangerous to humans, but a minority of species can cause severe symptoms. In North America, the Arizona bark scorpion is the best-known dangerous species.

Stings and treatment

Scorpion stings are often managed with cleaning, ice, pain relief, and poison-centre guidance. Severe symptoms, children’s stings, breathing problems, or body-wide effects need urgent medical care, and antivenom may be used for serious Centruroides envenomation.