Types of Scorpions

Published on: Jan 26 2016 by Shenron

Scorpions are known to be the ancient poisonous arthropod. These are the part of the animal class called arachnid. Scorpions are often associated with the spiders. Some of the species of scorpions have venomous stings. Scorpions are similar to crayfish in terms of body structure. Scorpions have a pair of appendages stretching from the sides of the mouth. They also have a diabolic tail along with a pair of strong pincers. Scorpions use their tails to attack prey.

There are more than 2,000 known species of scorpions in the entire world. Out of these 2,000 species, some of the species are grouped as exotic. Many of the species belong to the tropical and warm, desert regions of the world. In United States, there are more than thirty species exist. Scorpions are found in different colors and sizes. They come in yellow, red, black, and green colors.

Scorpions are grouped into two types on the basis of toxicity of their venom. There are few species that are not considered venomous and are not harmful. Non-venomous scorpions’ sting causes sharp pain along with swelling, but the swelling clears up in a couple of hours. However, the venomous scorpions are quite deadly. Their sting is often compared to those venomous snakes like cobra and coral snakes. Such scorpions carry neuro-toxic venom. Many of the venomous species are found in Mexico.

Species of Scorpions

Following are given some of the major species of scorpions along with brief description.

Emperor Scorpion

Emperor scorpions, also known as imperial scorpions are one of the largest species of the scorpions. Emperor scorpion is a popular house pet because of the fact that its sting is non-toxic. They are commonly found in black color and grow up to the length of 8 inches. The average life span of emperor scorpion is 5 to 8 years. Despite the fact of their popularity, this species of scorpions is getting extinct because of rough handling. There are no proper rules to make this thing certain that these are properly cared. These are commonly found in Africa.

Scorpio Maurus

Scorpio Maurus, also known as Israeli gold are inhabit in North Africa. These scorpions can either be multicolored or found in off white or deep brownish red color with red markings on the body and tail. The huge claws are their distinct feature. These scorpions can grow up to the length of 8 inches or even more. Scorpio Maurus enjoys living in sand beach areas with high humidity levels. These are also known for burrows which are usually one foot deep. In cold conditions, these scorpions hide hibernate themselves in the burrows until the cold weather conditions has over. Although, their sting is non-venomous, yet it causes severe pain and irritation.

Bothriuridae

It is a type of scorpion that is found in Asia, Africa and South America. They usually enjoy the hot subtropical conditions. Bothriuridae are found in black or gray color with many characteristic features. Unlike other species of scorpions, they have thicker appearance. They inhabit in small cracks, cervices or burrows. You can also find them hiding under the rocks. These scorpions are also non-venomous and you don’t require any medical attention after it sting you.

Giant Hairy Scorpions

It is a type of scorpion found in the Southwest areas of United States. Like Scorpio Maurus, they also enjoy burrowing in sandy areas, but the only difference between the two species is giant hairy scorpions are least bothered about humidity factor. They flourish well in desert areas. These scorpions are found in yellowish-green color. Giant hairy scorpions are known as the largest type of scorpion living in America. It can grow up to the length of 6 inches. Giant hair scorpions do have a hint of venom in their sting, but it’s not deadly.

There are many other species of scorpions such as Caraboctonidae, Chactidae and so on. Although, there are several different species of scorpions, but all of them lived on smaller insects like crickets, lizards, beetles etc.

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