Home / Stinging Pests / Scorpions / Sand Scorpions

Sand Scorpion

Sand Scorpions are invertebrate predators that are classified as part of Arachnida, belonging to the order of Scorpiones. Their scientific name is Paruroctonus Utahensis.

These scorpions live on dry sand, hence their name. They differ from other scorpion species in that they have a unique method of sensing prey and locating mates. They use their sensitive vibration and chemosensory systems on the sand surface. As prospective prey gets closer, the scorpion can detect it using its vibration signals. The scorpion moves forward with its pincers outstretched until it makes a move to incapacitate the prey.

Meanwhile, they can also use these vibrations to find prospective mates. Male scorpions use sexually dimorphic chemosensory appendages, the pectines, which transmit a static stimulus field. These organs support sensors that project a great topographic view of somewhat accurate precision to the central nervous system.

These burrowing nocturnal predators are also unique in terms of appearance. Their color matches the color of the sand, which is pale yellow to yellowish brown. Their pincers are swollen and keeled with short fingers in adults. Another feature is their legs, which have bristly combs that provide traction on sandy ground.

Sand Scorpions can be seen in the Mexican state of Chihuahua and in Arizona, New Mexico, Texas, and Utah. And unlike scorpion species, they eat spiders and large insects.

Red Scorpion

Albino Scorpions

Arizona Bark Scorpion

Black Scorpion

Blue Scorpions

Emperor Scorpions

Deathstalker Scorpion

Lesser Brown Scorpion

Pseudo Scorpions

Red Claw Scorpions

Tailless Whip Scorpions

Whip Scorpions