Scorpion (order Scorpiones)

InvertebrateArachnidVenomous

Overview

Scorpions (order Scorpiones) are arachnids — relatives of spiders, ticks, and mites — recognised by their grasping pincers (pedipalps) and a long, segmented tail tipped with a venomous sting. They are an ancient group that has existed for hundreds of millions of years. The reference species here is the emperor scorpion (Pandinus imperator), one of the largest.

This is an educational profile. Although all scorpions are venomous, the great majority are not dangerous to healthy adults; only a small number of species have venom of serious medical concern. Wild scorpions should not be handled, and this page does not provide medical or first-aid advice.

Note: a famous quirk of scorpions is that they glow a bright blue-green under ultraviolet (UV) light, a property still being researched.

Habitat & Range

Scorpions live on every continent except Antarctica, and although they are most associated with deserts, they also occupy grasslands, forests, caves, and mountains. They shelter under rocks, in burrows, or in crevices by day and are mostly active at night.

Diet

Scorpions are carnivores that prey on insects, spiders, and other small animals. They seize prey with their pincers and, when needed, use the venomous sting to subdue it. Many can survive long periods between meals and have very low metabolic rates, which helps them endure harsh environments.

Behavior

Scorpions are mostly solitary, nocturnal hunters that detect prey through vibrations and touch using fine sensory hairs and comb-like organs on the underside of the body. The sting is used both to subdue prey and in defence. Females give birth to live young, which often ride on the mother's back until their first moult.

Human Interaction & Conservation

Scorpions are widely feared, but most species pose little danger to people, and they play a useful role controlling insect populations. A minority of species do have medically significant venom, so caution is warranted in regions where those occur. For any sting or medical concern, follow professional and local medical guidance rather than advice from this page.

More photos of the scorpion