Scorpions: Facts, Identification & Control
In a human victim, a scorpion’s venom may cause symptoms like swelling at the site of the sting. However, some people experience numbness, and convulsions. In extreme cases, some people may experience difficulty in breathing. People who are allergic are most likely to die from a dangerous scorpion’s venom. Their chance of survival improves if they receive an injection of anti-venom in time to counteract the sting’s effects.
Presently, there are 1,200 known species of scorpions in the world – and all of these scorpions are dangerous to some degree. Among types of scorpions, the smaller species are often more venomous–larger scorpions compensate by appearing more formidable to potential predators.
One of the more infamous varieties of dangerous scorpions roaming the American southwest would be the Arizona bark scorpion (Centruroides sculpturatus). Deaths have been attributed to the venom of these dangerous creatures, but the numbers are uncertain.
The fat-tailed scorpion (Androctonus australis) is also one of the more notorious members of the deadly scorpion class. It is believed that this treacherous scorpion is responsible for numerous fatalities in North Africa and the Middle East where it is very common. It s also known to be quite aggressive and its poison can be especially deadly to the aged and to children, due to their weak defense systems and small bodies, respectively. This is one dangerous scorpion that people should really try to avoid.
Another dangerous member of the scorpion family is the aptly named Death Stalker (Leiurus quinquestriatus). It is native to both the northern and southern hemispheres of Africa and is commonly found in its deserts. Its venom has been proven to be potent.
Anatomy
Spider vs Scorpion Identification
Stings
Habitat
Life Cycle
Types
Types and Species of Scorpions
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