Brazilian scorpions in the international pet trade

 

Scorpions are popular pets in many countries. Especially popular are the large members of the family Scorpionidae from Africa and Asia. There is also an increasing interest in species from other families and from other regions.

Brazil has a strict regulation prohibiting collection and export of wildlife, including scorpions. However,  recent study by Kenay Vinicius Lopes de Andrade and Andre Felipe de Araujo Lira shows that several species from five genera from Brazil are available in the international pet trade. Especially worrying is that several medical important species from the genera Tityus C. L. Koch, 1836 and Atreus Gervais, 1843* are represented in the pet trade.

The results are based on surveying social media platforms, and the article discuss the consequences of the illegal import and what can be done to stop it.

*Previous subgenera in Tityus raised to species status by Prendini, 2026 with 61 species previously in Tityus - Buthidae 2026 will soon show the new taxonomy for Buthidae. 

Abstract:
Background and Research Aims: The global wildlife trade is a major driver of biodiversity loss, yet invertebrates remain largely overlooked in conservation policy and monitoring. Scorpions are ecologically important tropical arthropods, and Brazil harbors one of the world’s richest and most endemic scorpion faunas. Despite national legislation prohibiting the collection and commercialization of native wildlife, the extent of international online trade in Brazilian scorpions remains undocumented. We aimed to identify Brazilian species involved in the exotic pet trade using publicly accessible online data and to evaluate associated conservation and biosecurity concerns. Methods: We conducted systematic searches of public social media platforms and online marketplaces between January 2020 and December 2024 using Portuguese and English keywords related to scorpion trade. Posts explicitly indicating possession or sale were recorded, including species identity, country, year, and price when available. Results: We compiled 69 records involving nine species across five genera. Most posts originated outside Brazil, particularly in Europe and North America. Medically significant species, including Tityus serrulatus, Tityus stigmurus, and Atreus obscurus, were repeatedly detected. Records spanned more than a decade, indicating persistent international circulation, with only 26% of records including a price, and given prices ranging between US$12 and US$200. Conclusion: Brazilian scorpions are recurrently present in international online trade, representing an overlooked pathway for the circulation of tropical wildlife. Implications for Conservation: Digital trade exposes enforcement gaps and may contribute to unregulated extraction, biosecurity risks, and neglected pressures on tropical invertebrate biodiversity. Integrating invertebrates into wildlife trade monitoring is urgently needed.

Reference:
Lopes de Andrade KV, Lira AFdA. International Online Trade of Brazilian Scorpions: An Overlooked Threat to Tropical Biodiversity. Tropical Conservation Science. 2026;19:1–8. [Subscription required for full text]

Thanks to Andre Lira for keeping me updated on his publications! 

A review of the family Buthidae in Angola with a few taxonomical decisions

 

Frantisek Kovarik has recently publish an overview of the family Buthidae in Angola. In addition to some updates in distribution, several taxonomical decisions are made.

Uroplectes angolensis Kovarik, 2026 [New species]

Uroplectes xavieri Kovarik, 2026 [New species]

Uroplectes monardi Vachon, 1950 [Confirmed species status and raised from subspecies status. This decision cancels the synonymization made by Prendini, 2026]

Uroplectes planimanus kuanyamarus Monard, 1937 [Synonymized with main species]

Uroplectes otjimbinguensis massacarum Monard, 1937  [Synonymized with main species]

Babycurus crassicaudatus Roewer, 1952 [Restored from synonymy with B. ansorgei Roewer, 1952]

The author has a general comment on all the taxonomical changes and synonymies done by Prendini, 2026. 

"Some of the synonymies suggested by Prendini (2026) could be valid (...) However, every individual claim made by Prendini (2026) must be verified by a serious revision rather than accepting his sweeping taxonomic changes. Some of these changes originate from this author‘s "philosophical“" position of "abolishing" categories of subgenus and subspecies in scorpions."

As this is the first published general response to Prendni's major revision, I have include a direct quote of Kovarik's opinion. See also The Scorpion Files latest response to the situation.

Abstract:
All scorpion species of the family Buthidae known from Angola are listed, with color photographs and maps of their distribution. Diagnosis of Babycurus ansorgei Hirst, 1911 is revised; its male is described for the first time. Babycurus crassicaudatus Roewer, 1952, is revalidated (it was erroneously synonymized with B. ansorgei, since the females of both species are morphologically almost identical). Uroplectes angolensis sp. n. and U. xavieri sp. n. are described from Angola. Validity of Uroplectes ngangelarum Monard, 1930 is confirmed as different from U. planimanus (Karsch, 1879); its lectotype is designated. Lectotype is also designated for Uroplectes planimanus kuanyamarus Monard, 1937. Females of Uroplectes ebogo Kovařík et al., 2024 are recorded for the first time; its basal pectines are imaged (Fig. 603). Uroplectes machadoi Lourenço, 2000 is for the first time listed from Congo (Brazzaville).

Reference:
Kovarik F. Scorpions of Angola (Arachnida, Scorpiones). Part I. Family Buthidae, with descriptions of two new species. Euscorpius. 2026(434):1–86.

Thanks to Frantisek for informing me about his article and for comments regarding the new Prendini revision!

Family Buthidae 

The Scorpion Files is joining the multiverse

 

Most major movie franchises have introduced the concept of multiverse. And now The Scorpion Files follows this trend. 

As previously mentioned, Lorenzo recently published a major revision of the whole scorpion order with a lot of changes. Some changes are fundamental, like removing all subspecies and subgenera and either synonymizing or changing status to the associated taxa. Other changes are based on investigations with justification. 

It is not an exaggeration to say that quite a few scorpion researchers have been negative or skeptical to Prendini's work. But they do not reject all changes, just some of them, and often because of lack of justification and not that the decisions are wrong.

Some researchers have started to publish new articles based on Prendini's scorpion taxonomy and The Scorpion Files has to respond to this. I can't ignore this major work anymore and wait if someone will publish an article rejecting all of Prendini's decisions. This will probably not happen. 

So a temporary solution will be the "multiverse solution". I'm now working on making two versions of every family list in The Scorpion Files. Family pages based on Prendini, 2026 will have "2026" added to the file name (e.g., bothriuridae 2026.php). The "old" family pages will now have a text and a link to the multiverse version:  

The taxonomy of Bothriuridae according to Prendini, 2026 is available here. 

Please not that this is a work in progress and only a few new family pages are finished. I hope that most families will be covered by the end of next week, but the family Buthidae will be finished last because this family have several major changes that will take some time to implement.

Please note that the number of species and genera and some links may not be correct yet in the multiverse pages, but will be fixed during the summer. 

 I wish all of you a nice summer!

Jan Ove Rein
Editor 

PS! The illustration is generated by Chat GPT. 

Reference:Prendini L. All genera of the world: Order Scorpiones (Animalia: Arthropoda: Arachnida). Megataxa. 2026;019(2):270–378. [Open Access]

Offspring growth and development in two buthid scorpions from Azerbaijan

Growth and biological development in scorpions vary between species and their habitat, climate and feeding ecology. Nizami E. Novruzov has recently published a laboratory study of the above in the two buthid species Olivierus caucasicus (Nordmann, 1840) and Mesobuthus eupeus (C.L. Koch, 1839) from Azerbaijan. See abstract and article for details.

Abstract:
The main aspects of offspring growth in two scorpion species – Mesobuthus eupeus and Olivierus caucasicus were studied. The entire reproductive cycle – mating, pregnancy of females, birth of the offspring and their growth until adulthood – took place in laboratory conditions. The duration, rate, and intensity of growth, as well as the dynamics of body weight changes and some metric traits during post-embryonic ontogenesis were studied. The growth of young scorpions was uneven, with growth periods of varying lengths: from larva to third molt – an average of 6.2 months, from the fourth molt to the sixth (imago) – an average of 12.6 months (M. eupeus); and an average of 7.7 and 14.1 months (O. caucasicus). By duration of development, M. eupeus nymphs were ahead of O. caucasicus nymphs: on average by 9.2±2.8 days in early post-larval ontogenesis and by 15.0±3.5 days in late post larval ontogenesis. Of the entire growth cycle, 4/5 occurred during molting, the remaining 1/5 occurred in the periods between molting. Species-specific and sex-specific differences in the dynamics of changes in linear characters and body weight were identified. Sexual dimorphism was also evident in faster development, a greater number of molts, and a longer lifespan in females compared to males. Changes in growth rate and intensity tended to increase at the beginning of development and decrease at the end. Nymphs of both species also showed some decrease in growth rate and weight gain during periods of no feeding activity before molting and during periods chronologically corresponding to their natural diapause in the wild.

Reference:
Novruzov NE. Comparative dynamics of offspring growth in Mesobuthus eupeus (C.L. Koch, 1839) and Olivierus caucasicus (Nordmann, 1840) (Scorpiones: Buthidae). Serket. 2026;21(2):158–74. [Open Access]

Thanks to Hisham El-Hennaway for sending me the article! 

Two articles on prey capture and prey in Leiurus arabicus in Saudi Arabia

 

Mayssara El Bouhissi and co-workers have recently published two articles reporting about prey capture and prey types in Leiurus arabicus Lowe, Yagmur & Kovarik, 2014 (Buthidae) in Saudi Arabia. The first article is a case report describing predation on the lizzard Mesalina cryptica. The second article describes an example of intraguild predation involving L. arabicus preying on Androctonus crassicauda (Olivier, 1807).

Abstract article 1:
An adult buthid scorpion Leiurus arabicus Lowe, Yağmur & Kovařík, 2014 was observed preying on the lizard Mesalina cryptica (Squamata: Lacertidae) in the King Abdulaziz Royal Reserve (KARR), Saudi Arabia. Predation of Mesalina by a scorpion has not been previously documented. 

Abstract article 2:
Intraguild predation represents an important ecological interaction that influences species composition and trophic relationships in arid ecosystems. During diurnal surveys in the King Abdulaziz Royal Reserve (KARR), Saudi Arabia, we documented a case of predation involving two buthid scorpions. Specifically, an individual of Leiurus arabicus was observed preying on Androctonus crassicauda on sandy soil with scattered rocks. When disturbed, the predator attempted to retreat into rock crevices while firmly holding its prey, demonstrating strong prey-retention behaviour. This observation highlights predator–predator interactions within Buthidae in Saudi Arabian desert environments and provides insights into trophic dynamics among sympatric scorpion species.

Reference article 1:
El Bouhissi M, Alzahrani AS, Alkhamis HH, Alowaifeer AM, Kehail MA, Alrefaei AF. A case of predation on Mesalina cryptica (Squamata: Lacertidae) by Leiurus arabicus (Scorpiones: Buthidae) in King Abdulaziz Royal Reserve, Saudi Arabia. Serket. 2026;21(2):213–6. [Open Access]

Reference article 2:
El Bouhissi M, Alzahrani AS, Alkhamis HH, Alowaifeer AM, Kehail MA, Alrefaei AF. First record of predation of Leiurus arabicus on Androctonus crassicauda in King Abdulaziz Royal Reserve, Saudi Arabia. Serket. 2026;21(2):209–12. [Open access]

Thanks to Hisham El-Hennaway for sending me the articles! 

Sex differences in morphology cause sex differences in stridulation in the buthid Jaguajir rochae

 

It is not that well known that scorpions can produce sound that probably is meant to function defensively as an anti-predator defense. The sound is often called stridulation, and in scorpions it can be produced by morphological structures on the chelicera, legs, cauda or pectines.

Welton Dionisio-da-Silva and co-workers have recently published a study on stridulation Jaguajir rochae (Borelli, 1910) (Buthidae) and any sex-differences in the morphology of the sound producing structures and the acoustic output.

They found that there were several differences in the morphology of the sound producing structures of the pectins between the sexes, and they also found that females produced longer and more intense signals while the males exhibited slightly higher peak frequencies.

Abstract:
Stridulation, acoustic communication produced by friction between specialized body structures, is a poorly studied antipredator mechanism. Scorpions may display multiple defensive responses, yet acoustic signaling in such defensive context remains poorly studied. Given the sexual dimorphism commonly observed in scorpion body size and pectines, the latter, which may be involved in sound production, could vary morphologically and result in acoustic differences. We hypothesized that (1) stridulatory apparatus of the scorpion Jaguajir rochae (Borelli, 1910) is sexually dimorphic, (2) sexual dimorphism in stridulatory structures affects acoustic parameters, and (3) stridulatory responses vary with stress, tested via (2.1) mechanical and (2.2) mechano-chemical stimulation. Sound-producing structures and acoustic parameters were measured and stridulation was tested under high/low mechanical stress and mechano-chemical stress, the latter using chemical cues from a mammalian predator. Females exhibited larger pectinal structures, whereas males showed a higher allometric ratio relative to body size. Stridulatory signals in J. rochae showed sexual differentiation primarily in delta time, dB Sound Pressure Level, and low frequency, as revealed by Principal Component Analysis, what explains 38.7% of acoustic variance. Females produced longer and more intense signals, whereas males exhibited slightly higher peak frequencies. Yet, the occurrence of stridulatory responses was similar across different stress treatments. These findings reveal that sexual dimorphism in stridulatory apparatus influences acoustic parameters and that stridulation in J. rochae can be triggered by mechanical stimulation, supporting its role as a defensive behavior. This study provides the first evidence of sex specific acoustic variation in scorpion stridulation and elucidates its function as an antipredator strategy.

Reference:
Dionisio-da-Silva W, Luna NMC, da Rocha PA, Willemart RH, daSilva MB. She Doesn't Whisper: Female-Prominent Stridulation Shaped by Morphology in a Buthid Scorpion and Insights on Its Function. Ethology. 2026;First published 25.05.26. [Open Access]

A review of the scorpion fauna of Syria and their distribution

 

Ersen Yagmur and Nazir Khalil have recently published a review of the scorpion fauna of Syria. The scorpion fauna of Syria has not been extensively investigated and the article present a historic overview of scientific reports previously published on this topic.

The article reports of 19 valid species and 2 subspecies from 11 genera in the families Buthidae, Diplocentridae, and Scorpionidae. Several previously reported taxa are removed from the list of Syrian scorpions. New locality reports are also listed for several species. 

In his mega-revision, Prendini (2026) raised Aegaeobuthus bishri (Lourenço, 2020) (Buthidae) to species status from sub-species status. This change has not yet been included in The Scorpion Files. Yagmur & Khalil have changed this taxa back to sub-species status as Aegaeobuthus nigrocinctus bishri (Lourenço, 2020) due to lack of justification by Prendini.

Abstract:
This study reviews and lists the scorpion fauna of Syria according to current scorpion systematics. Critical evaluation of published records confirms 19 valid species and 2 subspecies across 11 genera and 3 families (Buthidae, Diplocentridae, and Scorpionidae); erroneous records (21 species) have been excluded. New locality records are reported for Aegaeobuthus nigrocinctus (Ehrenberg, 1828), Buthacus tadmorensis (Simon, 1892), Compsobuthus matthiesseni (Birula, 1905), and Scorpio kruglovi Birula, 1910.  Additionally, Aegaeobuthus bishri (Lourenço, 2020) is herein treated as a subspecies of A. nigrocinctus.

Reference:
Yagmur EA, Khalil N. A Review on Scorpion (Arachnida: Scorpiones) Fauna of Syria with New Locality Records. Commagene Journal of Biology. 2026;10(1):211–25. [Open Access]

Thanks to Ersen for sending me their article! 

Do hot temperatures cause hot tempered scorpions?

 

Scorpions are dependent on the temperatures in its environment to regulate their body temperatures (being ectothermic) and they will probably also have an effect on scorpion behavior. Scorpions use their sting and venom in prey capture and defense. 

Zia Nisani and co-workers have recently published a study looking into if and how different temperatures impact stinging behavior in Hadurus obscurus Williams, 1970 (Hadruridae). They tested how different temperatures impacted the defensive sting response and also the prey capture behavior at three different temperatures.

Scorpions with higher temperatures were faster to sting and required less provocation before stinging. In addition, "hotter" scorpions were quicker to catch prey and succeed with it. A physiological explanation for these results is probably that increased temperatures will increase muscle performance and metabolic rate. 

Abstract:
Scorpions employ their stinging mechanism both for defense and predation, and being ectothermic, temperature influences their physiology and behavior. As such, we hypothesized that temperature both affects defensive stinging and prey-capture behavior in scorpions. We tested the effects of body temperature on these behaviors in the desert hairy scorpion, Hadrurus obscurus Williams, 1970. In the first experiment, scorpions were placed in temperature-controlled chambers with either high (26-28°C) or low (21-22°C) temperatures and probed to elicit a defensive sting. We recorded the reaction time and the number of probes needed to elicit a sting. In the second experiment, we observed and recorded prey capture behavior at three different temperatures (21, 29, and 33°C). Scorpions with higher body temperatures had faster defensive reaction times and required fewer probes to elicit a sting. Furthermore, at a higher temperature, scorpions were more likely to attempt and succeed in prey capture, but temperature did not seem to affect post-capture stinging behavior. As the temperature rises, increasing muscle performance and metabolic rate in ectotherms, it may cause an increase in prey capture attempts and faster reaction times, as observed in our experiment. These results support our hypothesis that both defensive and predatory behavior in H. obscurus is affected by temperature, allowing more insight into scorpion thermal ecology.

Reference:
Nisani Z, Bennett M, Enriquez A, Iniquez M, Martinez Rios E, Stone B. Effect of temperature on the defensive and predatory behavior of the scorpion Hadrurus obscurus (Scorpiones: Hadruridae). Euscorpius. 2026;2026(433):1–9. [Open Access]

A new species of Olivierus from Eastern Iran

 

Niloofar Hashemzahia and co-workers have recently published an article on the scorpion fauna of Nehbandan County, Eastern Iran. I new species of Olivierus Farzanpay, 1987 (Buthidae) is described.

Olivierus simabina Barahoei, 2026

Abstract:
Given the lack of research on scorpion species in South Khorasan province, this study is deemed necessary. Understanding the scorpion fauna and its seasonal occurrence is essential for effectively preventing and treating scorpion stings. Sampling was done evenly using an ultraviolet light at night or direct observation during the day. In this study, 141 specimens were collected from different parts of Nehbandan county. Five species belonging to five genera of the Buthidae were collected and identified, the first four being Androctonus orientalis (Birula), Mesobuthus rakhshanii Barahoei, Odontobuthus tirgari Mirshamsi et al. and Sassanidotus gracilis (Birula). Olivierus simabina Barahoei sp. n. was also described, and its record was added to the scorpion fauna of Iran. No other species except for O. tirgari has been recorded from Nehbandan. Sassanidotus gracilis is a new report for the fauna of the South Khorasan province.

Reference:
Hashemzahi N, Ravan S, Barahoei H. New species and faunal records of the scorpions of Nehbandan County, eastern Iran (Scorpiones: Buthidae). Journal of Natural History. 2026;60(25-28):1431–46. [Subscription required for full text]

Family Buthidae 

Two new chactid species from Northernmost Brazilian Amazon

 

Andre Lira has co-workers have recently published an article describing two new species in the family Chactidae from the Northernmost Brazilian Amazon.

Brotheas cernii Lira, Gonzalez-Santillan, Santos-da-Silva, Brescovit & Pucca, 2026

Cayooca puchus Lira, Gonzalez-Santillan, Santos-da-Silva, Brescovit & Pucca, 2026

The genus Cayooca Gonzalez-Sponga, 1996 has been synonymized with Broteochactas Pocock, 1893. In the recent mega-revision of scorpion taxonomy, Prendini, 2026 resurrected this genus. As previously mentioned, I'm in the process of mapping all changed made in the Prendini paper and decide how to include these in The Scorpion Files. However, because a new species has been described in Cayooca, I have chosen to include this genus as valid in The Scorpion Files. A consequence of this is that Cayooca venezuelensis Gonzalez-Sponga, 1996 is returned to its original genus from Broteochactas Pocock, 1893.

Abstract:
Amid an ongoing environmental crisis marked by high deforestation rates in the Brazilian Amazon, two new species of chactid scorpions are herein described. Cayooca puchus sp. n. is described from an inselberg in the municipality of Mucajaí, state of Roraima, northern Brazilian Amazon. The new species resembles Cayooca venezuelensis but differs by denser body granulation and strongly costate, scattered granular ventromedian and ventral prosubmedian carinae. Brotheas cernii sp. n., described from the same locality, resembles Brotheas granulatus and B. subgranulatus but differs by smaller body size, granular ventral carinae on metasomal segment I, strongly granular pedipalp chelae, and spinoid granules on ventral metasomal carinae of segments III–V. These findings reinforce the Amazon as a major center of biodiversity and highlight the likelihood that numerous species remain undescribed.

Reference:
Lira AFA, González-Santillán E, Santos-da-Silva AP, Brescovit AD, Melo-dos-Santos G, Rocha AM, et al. Two New Species of Scorpions (Scorpiones: Chactidae) from Northernmost Brazilian Amazon. Diversity. 2026;18(6):345. [Open Access]

Thanks to Andre for sending me their article!

Family Chactidae 

A detailed description of the external morphology of Hottentotta saulcyi

 

 Niyazi Deniz and Melek Erdek have recently published a study of the external morphology of the male and female Hottentotta saulcyi (Simon, 1880) (Buthidae). Functional morphological implications are also discussed.

Abstract:
The comparative external morphological structures were surveyed on male and female Hottentotta saulcyi (Simon, 1880) in detail with scanning electron microscope (SEM). The constellation arrays on chelae, peg sensilla on the pectinal organ, aculear peg sensilla on aculeus part of telson, femoral cluster setae and trichobothria on chelae, and the other sensillar structures (sensilla trichodea, sensilla chaetica, slit sensilla) and epicuticular patterns on chelicerae, legs, and their functional morphologies were assessed in light of habitat and climatic preferences of both sexes of the species. This study constitutes the first comprehensive investigation of the external morphology of H. saulcyi.

Reference:
Deniz N, Erdek M. An evaluation of external morphology of Hottentotta saulcyi (Simon, 1880) (Scorpiones: Buthidae). Serket. 2026;21(2):147–57. [Open Access]

Thanks to Hisham  El-Hennaway for sharing the full text of this article with me!  

A new species of Compsobuthus from Iraq

 

Frantisek Kovarik and Frantisek Stahlavsky have recently published the description of a new species of Compsobuthus Vachon, 1949 (Buthidae) from Iraq.

Compsobuthus hadeki Kovarik & Stahlavsky, 2026

Abstract:
A new species, Compsobuthus hadeki sp. n. from Iraq is described and fully complemented with color photographs and compared with morphologically the most similar species, C. matthiesseni (Birula, 1905). The two species can be unequivocally separated by the following morphological features: in C. hadeki sp. n., movable finger of pedipalp bears 9 rows of granules; telson with aculeus shorter than vesicle, and metasoma III with 10 carinae. Cytogenetic analysis was performed, revealing a diploid chromosome count of 22 in C. hadeki sp. n.

Reference:
Kovarik F, Stahlavsky F. Compsobuthus hadeki sp. n. from Iraq (Scorpiones, Buthidae). Euscorpius. 2026(432):1–8. [Open Access]

Family Buthidae 

On the behavior, ecology and distribution of the buthid Buthus apiatus in Algeria

 

Noureddine Benali and co-workers have recently published a study on the behavior, ecology, distribution and habitat preferences of Buthus apiatus Lourenço, El Bouhissi & Sadine, 2020 (Buthidae) in Algeria. One main takeaway from this study is that this species has a larger flexibility in habitat preferences and distribution in Algeria than previously known.

Abstract:
Buthus apiatus Lourenço, El Bouhissi & Sadine, 2020 is an endemic scorpion species in Algeria, first discovered in the Sidi Bel Abbès region in the northwest of the country. It was previously thought to have a restricted distribution limited to Sidi Bel Abbès, Tissemsilt and Tiaret in western Algeria. However, recent field survey has revealed a wider range than previously assumed, with confirmed occurrence in several additional areas of western Algeria that extend to the central-eastern regions, including Tlemcen, Naama, Mascara, Saïda, Laghouat, Bayadh and M'Sila. These new records suggest a substantial expansion of the species known range, highlighting its broader ecological tolerance and potentially redefining its distribution limits. Furthermore, B. apiatus has been observed across diverse habitats in Algeria, demonstrating considerable ecological flexibility.

Reference:
Benali N, Hammou MA, Dahmani W, El Bouhissi  M, Mohdeb S, Chedad A, et al. Ethology, ecology and distribution of Buthus apiatus Lourenço, El Bouhissi & Sadine, 2020 in Algeria (Scorpiones: Buthidae). Serket. 2026;21(2):175–83. [Open Access]

Thanks to Hisham  El-Hennaway for sharing the full text of this article with me! 

Distribution, hybridisation and morphology of two species of Androctonus from Algeria

 

 Mohammed Ait Hammou and co-workers have recently published an article on the distribution and morphology of Androctonus liouvillei (Pallary, 1924) and A. aeneas C. L. Koch, 1839 (Buthidae) from Algeria. The study also looks into potential hybrid forms of the two species. Habitat differences and biogeography are also discussed.

Abstract:
This study updates the geographic distribution and examines the morphometric differentiation of Androctonus liouvillei, A. aeneas, and their putative hybrids in Algeria. By combining historical records with field surveys conducted between 2021 and 2024, several new localities for A. liouvillei in western Algeria were identified. Morphometric analyses of 12 adult females using Principal Component Analysis (PCA), Hierarchical Cluster Analysis (HCA), and Linear Discriminant Analysis (LDA), revealed key morphological differences and as well as intermediate forms. The results indicate that A. liouvillei has a restricted, and fragmented distribution, primarily associated with mid-altitude steppe habitats, whereas A. aeneas occupies a broader ecological range. Putative hybrids were recorded in sympatric zones, particularly in El Bayadh, Naâma, Béchar, and Tiaret, providing new insights into their biogeography and ecological differentiation.

Reference:
Hammou MA, Benali N, Dahmani W, Chedad A, El Bouhissi M, Rebbas K, et al. Geographical distribution, potential hybridisation, and comparative morphometric analysis of Androctonus liouvillei Pallary, 1924 (Scorpiones: Buthidae) in Algeria. Serket. 2026;21(2):184–208. [Open Access]

Thanks to Hisham  El-Hennaway for sharing the full text of this article with me!

DNA barcoding and distribution of euscorpiid scorpions from Kosovo

 

Donard Geci and co-workers have recently published a study of the little known scorpion fauna of Kosovo. A DNA barcoding together with morphological characters confirmed for the first time the presence of Alpiscorpius dinaricus (Di Caporiacco, 1950) (Euscorpiidae) in Kosovo. Illustrations to facilitate the identification of this species is provided. The distribution of Euscorpius hadzii Caporiacco, 1950 in Kosovo is expanded.

Abstract:
This study presents DNA barcoding data for Alpiscorpius dinaricus (Di Caporiacco) and Euscorpius hadzii Caporiacco. Barcode sequences were compared with publicly available reference data to support species identification, together with the evaluation of diagnostic morphological characters. Alpiscorpius dinaricus is recorded from Kosovo for the first time, representing a new national record and contributing to the knowledge of euscorpiid diversity in the region. Diagnostic illustrations of A. dinaricus are provided to facilitate reliable identification and to support future faunistic, taxonomic, and biogeographic studies. Euscorpius hadzii, previously known only from Prizren district, is now reported also from Bjeshkët e Nemuna Mountains (Western Kosovo).

Reference:
Geci D, Ibrahimi H, Bilalli A, Musliu M, Strohmeier T, Koblmüller S, et al. DNA barcoding of scorpions from Kosovo, with the first record of Alpiscorpius dinaricus (Di Caporiacco) (Scorpiones: Euscorpiidae). Journal of Natural History. 2026;60(21-24):1243–58. [Subscription required for full text]

Family Euscorpiidae 

Is “Tityus” tenuimanus Banks, 1910 actually a member of the genus Leiurus?

 

There are quite a few taxa in the scorpion world with unclear or unsolved status. “Tityus” tenuimanus Banks, 1910 (Buthidae) is one of these. Originally, labelled as collected in California, USA, but later this was changed to Morocco, and the species was synonymized with Buthus atlantis Pocock, 1889.

Mohamed Mousaid and co-workers have recently published a redescription of this taxa after examining the holotype. Their conclusion is that this species probably belongs to the genus Leiurus Ehrenberg,
1828. The absence of adult specimens makes it impossible to further conclude abut the status.

The authors remove “Tityus” tenuimanus from synonymy with B. atlantis, and consider it nomen dubium.

Abstract:
This study re-examines the holotype of “Tityus” tenuimanus Banks, 1910, previously synonymized with Buthus atlantis Pocock, 1889 by Lourenço & Francke (1984). Our results indicate that the specimen is a misidentified representative of Leiurus Ehrenberg, 1828, as it exhibits the diagnostic characters of this genus: the central lateral and posterior median carinae of the carapace fused into a lyre-shaped configuration, and tergites I–II bearing five granular carinae (a character absent in the genus Buthus Leach, 1815). Moreover, the holotype lacks one of the most distinctive characters of the genus Tityus Koch, 1836, namely the presence of a subaculear tubercle. The holotype shares several morphological features with two species described from Egypt (especially trichobothrial configuration on the fixed finger of pedipalp), Leiurus libycus (Birula, 1908) and L. aegyptiacus Lourenço & El- Hennawy, 2021, both of which are only known from immature material. The absence of adult specimens for these two species, as well as the lack of a clear assessment of their intraspecific morphological variation, leads us to consider “T.” tenuimanus as a
nomen dubium for the time being, and to remove it from synonymy with B. atlantis.

Reference:
Mousaid M, Yagmur EA, Flores Z, Rivera A, Lansari A, Bouazza A. A reassessment of “Tityus” tenuimanus Banks, 1910, as a misidentified Leiurus sp. (Scorpiones: Buthidae). Euscorpius. 2026(431):1–7. [Open Access]

Family Buthidae 

Cave and subterranean dwelling scorpions in Brazil

 

As many other invertebrates, som scorpions have adapted to a life in caves and/or in subterrean habitats. A few are true troglobites, adapted to cave life only (often with several troglomorphic adaptions). Others are troglophiles or trogloxenes, living both inside and outside the subterranean realm. 

Jonas Gallao and co-workers have recently published a review summing up the knowledge of cave and subterranean scorpions in Brazil. They found that three families and at least 33 species have been reported from these kinds of habitats. 

Abstract:
Arachnids have successfully colonized subterranean environments. Compared to spiders, harvestmen, and pseudoscorpions, scorpions have a moderate number of subterranean species, including troglophiles and troglobites. Among the four families and 184 species and three subspecies of scorpions found in Brazil, three families and at least 33 species and one subspecies have been documented in subterranean habitats. This study presents a faunistic list of scorpion occurrences in caves and other types of subterranean habitats in Brazil, along with distribution maps and an attempt to classify species based on their use of and dependence on subterranean environments.

Reference:
Gallao JE, Lenhare BD, Oliveira-Neto M, Bichuette ME. Scorpions in Brazilian caves and other subterranean habitats. Euscorpius. 2026(430):1–12. [Open Access] 

A review of the genus Nebo in Oman and the description of three new species

 

Graeme Lowe has published a review of the genus Nebo Simon, 1878 (Diplocentridae) in Oman. Three new species were identified.

Nebo feulneri Lowe, 2026 

Nebo masirahensis Lowe, 2026 

Nebo nebulicola Lowe, 2026 

The existence of the three previously reported species in Oman is confirmed, and redescriptions are provided. The article also includes an identification key for the genus in Oman.

Regarding the major Prendini revision of all scorpion taxa that I recently blogged about, I have started mapping all the changes and their justification. There are several hundred changes, and this work will take some time. I also awaits reactions from the scorpion research community about the changes. The first line in the paper uses the work "consensus" about the content, but that is not in accordance with the reactions I have gotten so far. Many of the suggested changes are accepted, but others are refuted. So I will not update The Scorpion Files until I get some real consensus about the results (to avoid using a lot of time changing The Scorpion Files, and then have to change a lot back again after a few months because new papers will change Prendini's suggested changes. So please be patient and check the Prendini paper if you want to learn more about the changes he has suggested.

Abstract:
The taxonomy of the genus Nebo in Oman is revised based on an analysis of 427 samples from 135 localities spanning the length of the country. All three previously known species, N. franckei Vachon, 1980, N. omanensis Francke, 1980, and N. whitei Vachon, 1980, were found and are redescribed. Three new species, N. feulneri sp. n., N. masirahensis sp. n., and N. nebulicola sp. n. from the Arabian Sea coast are described, and a new record of N. henjamicus is reported from the Musandam Peninsula. Species diagnoses are based on coloration, morphometric ratios, multivariate analyses of sclerite dimensions, scalloping of male pedipalp fingers, and granulation of female carapace and pedipalp movable fingers. The populations of Nebo comprise a series of allopatric or sympatric species distributed over four local centers of endemism on coastal regions of Oman: Al Hajar mountains, northern Central Coast, southern Central Coast, and Dhofar mountains.

Reference:
Lowe G. The genus Nebo Simon, 1878 (Scorpiones: Diplocentridae) in Oman. Euscorpius. 2026(429):1–139.

Family Diplocentridae 

 

Discovery of an unknown cave-dwelling scorpion from Australia

 

It is always interesting to read about new, cave dwelling scorpions. Some of these are just troglophiles without any special morphological adaptions, while others are true troglobites with adaptions like lack of pigments and reduced or no eyes.

In a recent article, Michael Curran and co-workers describe a new scorpion discovered in caves the Pilbara region of Western Australia. The taxonomic status of the scorpion will be treated in a future article, but preliminary analysis place it in the family Bothriuridae. The new species has distinct troglomorphic traits. It lacks eyes and pigmentation, and has weakened/diminished appendages.

It will be interesting to read the follow-up study on the taxonomy of this scorpion and another unknown bothriurid fra the same area. These two specimens represent the first reported troglobitic members of the family Bothriuridae.

Abstract:
We report the first troglobitic members of the scorpion family Bothriuridae from Australia, discovered in the Pilbara region of Western Australia, and provide a brief review of Australian troglofaunal scorpions. Scorpions are rare in subterranean ecosystems, with only 28 species recorded globally. Two described and two undescribed subterranean scorpion species were previously known from Australia. The Pilbara specimen documented herein exhibit pronounced troglomorphic traits, including complete loss of ocelli and pigmentation and weakened/diminished appendages, consistent with obligate subterranean adaptation. Morphological and phylogenetic analyses place the specimen within Bothriuridae. Photographs, collection details, and molecular data are provided. Together with a previously collected undescribed bothriurid from the Pilbara, this discovery represents the first documented troglobitic Bothriuridae globally. Formal taxonomic treatment will follow in a subsequent dedicated study.

Reference:
Curran M, Rodman S, Huey J, Floeckner S, Gunawardene N, Lythe M, et al. First record of troglobitic Bothriuridae (Scorpiones) in Australia from the Pilbara. Subterr Biol. 2026;56:85–101. [Open Access]

Thanks to Matt Simon and Francesco Frigioni for sending me this article!

Heavy metal scorpions

 

No, I'm blogging about the heavy metal band Scorpions! :)

Sam Campbell and co-workers have recently published an interesting study looking into how scorpions can harden their weapons. The scorpions main weapons are their powerful claws and their stinger (used to inject venom). The study hypothesizes that the scorpions are using metal enrichment in these structure to make them harder and stronger.

The study shows that metals like Zinc are used in strengthening the claws and the stinger, but not simultaneously. In species where Zinc was richly concentrated in the claws, it was scarce in the stinger, and vice versa. Scorpions with big claws usually crush prey and do not use the stinger, while species with more slender claws depend on the stinger and venom for subduing a prey. Interestingly, it was the latter groups where the metal content of the claws was highest. This has probably evolved as a compensation for the structural fragility of the scorpion withe slender claws.

An interesting study that both looks into the distribution and placing of the metals in the scorpion exoskeleton and discuss this in an evolutionary context.

Abstract:
Scorpions diverged from their closest relatives around the Ordovician Period, and since then, environmental interactions have shaped the evolution of the material properties of their exoskeletons. Hardening of this structure via the incorporation of transition metals has enabled biomechanical advancements in weapon development. Scorpion weapons consist of the stinger (telson) and claws (chelae) and contain diverse metals such as zinc, manganese and iron, though little is known about comparative patterns of incorporation across the wider clade. In this study, we harness X-ray-driven microanalytical techniques to characterize the different elemental enrichment patterns within the weapons of 18 species from a range of scorpion families. We hypothesized that enrichment by metal would be inversely correlated between weapons, tied to their functional roles and morphological diversity. We identified cryptic enrichment strategies, including weapon-selective elemental replacement and an inverse enrichment of Zn between weapons. Chela enrichment by Zn was found to positively correlate with a morphological indicator of chelae pinch strength, wherein Zn enrichment was greater in specimens with reduced crushing power. This study supports a growing body of research into the evolution of metal enrichment among invertebrates and provides a greater understanding of the material properties of the exoskeleton within weapon development.
 

Reference:
Campbell SI, Vicenzi EP, Lam T, Fry BG, Wood HM. Heavy metal predators: diverse elemental enrichment across the weapons of scorpions. J R Soc Interface. 2026;23(237). [Open Access]

A new species of Scorpio from Saudi Arabia

 

Abdulhadi Aloufi and co-workers have recently published an article describing a new species of Scorpio Linnaeus, 1758 (Scorpionidae) from Saudi Arabia.

Scorpio furvus Aloufi, Afifeh, Al-Saraireh & Amr, 2026 

Abstract:
A new species of Scorpio Linnaeus, 1758 is described from Al Ula Governorate, Al Madinah Province, Saudi Arabia. Scorpio furvus sp. nov. is distinguished from closely related congeners, including S. fuscus, S. kruglovi, S. palmatus, S. jordanensis, and S. yemenensis, by a unique combination of morphological characters notably the granulation pattern of the pedipalp chela, metasomal proportions, pectinal structure and length, and overall dark coloration. Morphometric comparisons further support its distinct status. The discovery of this species highlights the underestimated diversity of the genus Scorpio in the Arabian Peninsula and reinforces the view that the Scorpio maurus complex comprises multiple geographically restricted taxa requiring continued integrative taxonomic investigation.

Reference:
Aloufi A, Abu Afifeh B, Al-Saraireh M, Amr ZS. A New Species of Scorpio from Saudi Arabia (Scorpiones: Scorpionidae). Taxonomy. 2026;6(2):26. [Open Access]

Thanks to Luis A. Roque for informing me about the new species.

Family Scorpionidae 

Ecological and social contexts of scorpion stings in Manaus, Brazil

 

Scorpionism is a well known problem in Brazil and also in many urban areas. In a recent article, Zehev Benzaken and co-workers have a more original focus on the occurrence and impact of scorpion stings in Brazil. 

They present the results from 30 interviews with sting victims and field observations of where the sting accidents happened. It is very interesting to read how the sting victims experienced the scorpion sting and how they reacted afterward. Also, the study shows that the structural conditions of households and the unplanned expansion of urban areas over natural environments are key factors in understanding the occurrence of scorpion stings.  

The study is an important contribution to finding ways to prevent scorpion accidents in areas where humans have moved into scorpion habitats. 

Abstract:
Scorpion stings remain a significant public health problem in tropical regions, particularly in Brazil, where an estimatied 117,185 cases are reported annually, reflecting a persistent and growing burden on the healthcare system. Globally, more than two million cases occur each year, especially in areas undergoing environmental disturbances such as deforestation and unplanned urbanization. This study investigates the ecological and social contexts of scorpion stings in Manaus, the largest metropolis of the Brazilian Amazon. This qualitative study was conducted at the Dr. Heitor Vieira Dourado Tropical Medicine Foundation (FMT-HVD), a reference center for scorpion stings, between January 2020 and March 2025. Data were collected through clinical questionnaires, indepth interviews, and household field observations. Thematic analysis was performed using Atlas.ti. Thirty participants from different age groups were included. Most cases were clinically mild. Five themes emerged from the qualitative analysis that address perceptions and reactions to the sting, environmental risk factors, postaccident behaviors, emotional impacts, and patient care pathways. Participants reported overlap between domestic spaces and forest fragments, limited knowledge about prevention, emotional distress, and barriers to accessing care, including late referrals and transportation difficulties. Scorpion stings in the Amazon are shaped by environmental, social, and structural factors. Integrated strategies involving environmental management, health education, urban planning, and improved healthcare access are essential to reduce their burden.

Reference:
Benzaken ZS, Cristino JS, Benzaken H, Sachett J, da Silva Carvalho E, da Silva Mendes Y, et al. Ecological and Social Contexts of Scorpion Stings in Manaus, the Largest Metropolis of the Brazilian Amazon. Toxicon. 2026:109122. [Open Access]

The effects of insecticide-contaminated prey on predatory behavior in the scorpion Tityus pusillus

 

Pesticides are commonly used in the fight against "pest-insects" like cockroaches. This can be harmful for other animals, like the predators eating these pesticide-contaminated prey and nature in general. Thayna Rhayane de Brito-Almeida and co-workers have recently published an article investigating the effects of insecticide-contaminated prey on predatory behavior in the scorpion Tityus pusillus  Pocock, 1893 (Buthidae).

The study shows that the acceptance rate prey exposed to insecticides was the same as for prey in the control group. However, there were some modifications in the prey capture behavior in the insecticide group compared to the control group. Also, scorpions that had ingested prey exposed to one type of insecticides showed signs of intoxication, but these were very short lived. It seems that Tityus pusillus is resistant to the insecticides tested.

Abstract:
In many countries, insecticide application in cities is the primary method used for urban pest control. However, the indiscriminate use of these chemical compounds may prejudice native predators which consume contaminated prey. This research aimed to evaluate the behavioural response of Tityus pusillus scorpions to prey previously exposed to different groups of insecticides. Two chemical compounds were tested: pyrethroid cypermethrin spray and the bait-type insecticide indoxacarb, which is an oxadiazine compound. Sixty scorpions were divided into three groups of 20 specimens each: a control group fed on cockroaches not exposed to any insecticide, a pyrethroid group fed on cockroaches previously exposed to cypermethrin, and an indoxacarb group fed on cockroaches exposed to oxadiazine. No difference was detected in prey acceptance among the three groups. Scorpions exposed to oxadiazine showed a non-significant trend toward longer capture latency, while pyrethroid-exposed individuals displayed transient signs of intoxication, with most recovering. Despite these short-term behavioural alterations, scorpions accepted contaminated prey, with no treatment effect on capture latency or acceptance probability. Our findings indicate short-term tolerance to the tested insecticides.

Reference:
Brito-Almeida T, Barbosa de Moura GJ, Lira A. Insecticide-contaminated prey alters predatory behaviour in the scorpion Tityus pusillus (Scorpiones: Buthidae). Arachnology. 2026;20:576–80. [Subscription required for full text]

A revision of all scorpion taxa of the world

 

Yesterday I was informed about a recent monograph published by Lorenzo Prendini containing a complete revision of all scorpion taxa of the world. This publication includes a huge amount of changes on family, genus and species level (synonymizations, new combinations, change of status etc.).

At the moment I'm not sure how to handle all of these changes, some that are controversial. I have gotten input from some researchers that are critical to this work and many of the conclusions. But this if of course a part of the scientific disagreements that we see all the time in science, including scorpion taxonomy.

Regardless of this, I will need time to read, understand and process all the changes proposed in this monograph. So it will take some time before The Scorpion Files will be updated. Those of you who are curious about the new changes can check out the paper, as if is freely available for all.

I will publish more about the changes when I start updating The Scorpion Files.

Thanks for your patience!

Reference:
Prendini L. All genera of the world: Order Scorpiones (Animalia: Arthropoda: Arachnida). Megataxa. 2026;019(2):270–378. [Open Access]

Jan Ove Rein
Editor 

A new species of Androctonus from Algeria

 

The vast areas of North Africa still harbor unidentified scorpion species. In a recent paper, Ersen Yagmur and co-workers describe a new species of Androctonus Ehrenberg, 1828 (Buthidae) from the Guezzam Province in southern Algeria.

Androctonus tinzaouatinensis Yagmur, Benali, Derradj & Bikada 2026 [Author names corrected 04.05.26]

The new species inhabits a hyper-arid Saharan biotope with summer daytime temperatures regularly exceeding 40°C and annual rainfall extremely low.

Abstract:
A new scorpion species, Androctonus tinzaouatinensis sp. n. is described and illustrated from the hyperarid Saharan regions of the Tin Zaouatine District, In Guezzam Province and Timiaouine District, Bordj Badji Mokhtar Province, southern Algeria. This new species represents the first record of the genus Androctonus from the Timiaouine and Tin Zaouatine areas. It is compared with congeners from Algeria and Niger, notably A. ajjer Ythier, Sadine, Alioua & Lourenço, A. amoreuxi (Audouin), and A. eburneus (Pallary).

Reference:
Yağmur EA, Benali N, Derradj L, Bikada M. Androctonus tinzaouatinensis a new scorpion species from In Guezzam Province, Algeria (Scorpiones: Buthidae). Journal of Natural History. 2026;60(17-20):1033–47. [Subscription required for full text]

Family Buthidae 

A new species of Brotheas from Brazilian Amazonia

 

Eric Ythier and Wilson Lourenco recently published an article describing a new species of Brotheas C.L. Koch, 1838  (Chactidae) from Brazilian Amazonia.

Brotheas pseudogranulatus Ythier & Lourenco, 2026

Abstract:
A new species of scorpion, Brotheas pseudogranulatus sp. n. (Scorpiones: Chactidae), is described from the state of Amazonas in Brazil, near the border with Colombia. The new species is notably characterized by a strong granulation over the carapace and tergites, and appears as a possible vicariant element with Brotheas granulatus Simon, 1877, from the Guayana region of South America. The total number of Brotheas species is now raised to 31, of which 14 occur in the Amazon Basin, including 11 from the Brazilian Amazonia. The geographical distribution of the genus Brotheas is also enlarged.

Reference:
Ythier E, Lourenco WR. A new species of Brotheas C. L. Koch, 1838 from Brazilian Amazonia (Scorpiones: Chactidae). Faunitaxys. 2026;14(30):1–7. [Open Access]

Thanks to Eric for informing me about this article!

Family Chactidae 

 

A new species of Euscorpius from Rhodes Island, Greece

 

It has been quiet about European Euscorpiidae for awhile after several decades of many new genera and species from what was originally less than 10 species. Several new species have been described from many of the Greek islands, showing the importance of insular isolation and diversity. 

Konstantinos Kalaentzis and co-workers have recently published an article describing a new species of Euscorpius Thorell, 1876 (Euscorpiidae) from the Greek island Rhodes based on morphological and molecular analysis. 

Euscorpius diagorasi Kalaentzis & Frigioni, 2026

Abstract:
The genus Euscorpius Thorell, 1876 comprises a diverse and taxonomically challenging group of scorpions in the Mediterranean, with Greece representing one of its principal centers of diversity. In this study, we provide an integrative description of Euscorpius diagorasi sp. n., a new species from Rhodes Island, Greece. The new species is described on the basis of adult male and female morphology and mitochondrial COI sequence data. It is a small oligotrichous species characterized by a total length of approximately 21–25 mm, pale yellow to light brown coloration with darker reddish-brown pedipalps, pectinal tooth count of 8 in the male and 7 in the females, Pv = 7–8, Pe-et = 5–6, and a distinct mitochondrial lineage. Phylogenetic analyses based on COI recovered the Rhodian specimens as a strongly supported monophyletic lineage, sister to E. vignai from Karpathos. Species delimitation analyses with BIN assignment, ABGD, and ASAP consistently supported the Rhodes population as a separate molecular unit. Morphologically, the new species differs from E. vignai and other geographically proximate Aegean and Anatolian congeners in a combination of body size, coloration, trichobothrial counts, pectinal tooth counts, carinal development and granulations. The species was found in pine forest habitat beneath the bark of Pinus brutia, suggesting an association with sheltered corticolous microhabitats. The description of E. diagorasi sp. n. adds to the growing evidence of insular diversification in Greek Euscorpius and highlights the still underestimated scorpion diversity of the Dodecanese.

Reference:
Kalaentzis K, Frigioni F, Kaitetzidou E, Iannucci A, riantafyllidis A. An integrative description of Euscorpius diagorasi sp. n. from Rhodes, Greece (Scorpiones: Euscorpiidae). Euscorpius. 2026(428):1–14.

Family Euscorpiidae 

On Leiurus nigellus in Saudi Arabia

 

Abdulaziz M. Al-Amri and co-workers recently publised an article with a molecular and morphological analysis of Leiurus nigellus Abu Afifeh, Aloufi & Al-Saraireh, 2023 (Buthidae) in Saudi Arabia. Distribution and habitat are also discussed.

Abstract:
This study documents the first confirmed record of the Buthid scorpion Leiurus nigellus from Jabal Arnan in the Ha’il region, located within the King Salman Bin Abdulaziz Royal Natural Reserve (KSRNR) in the northwestern Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA). This species was originally described by Abu Afifeh, Aloufi & Al-Saraireh (2023). This locality extends the known distribution range of L. nigellus by over 200 km southeast of the type locality in Al-Ula, Al Madinah province. A total of six specimens of L. nigellus were collected during fieldwork conducted between June 2024 and April 2025, including two adult males, one adult female, and three juveniles. The objective of this study was to confirm the taxonomic identity of Leiurus nigellus from a newly discovered locality using morphological examination and mitochondrial DNA analysis and documentation of its known geographic distribution. Adult specimens (one male and one female) were examined using comparative morphometric analysis following standard scorpion taxonomic protocols, confirming diagnostic traits consistent with the original species description. Meanwhile, habitat assessments indicated adaptation to semi-arid rocky and gravel substrates. Molecular analysis was conducted on one adult male using targeted mitochondrial 16S rRNA gene sequencing (Sanger method). Phylogenetic relationships were inferred using neighbor-joining and maximum-parsimony analyses, placing L. nigellus within the Arabian Leiurus clade with bootstrap-supported affinity to Arabian congeners and limited intraspecific divergence. The generated 16S rRNA sequence represents the first molecular record for L. nigellus and has been deposited in GenBank. Sexual dimorphism was evident in morphometric traits, but these differences reflect normal biological variation rather than taxonomic differentiation. The discovery of L. nigellus in northern Saudi Arabia emphasizes the importance of continued faunistic and genetic surveys in underexplored regions, both to refine species distributions and to inform conservation management of specialized desert arachnofauna.

Reference:
Al-Amri AM, Abdulhakeem MA, Alqahtani AR, Al-Malki AM, Shohdi WM. First Record of Leiurus nigellus (Scorpiones: Buthidae) in Northern Saudi Arabia: Molecular and Morphological Insights from Ha’il Region, King Salman Bin Abdulaziz Royal Natural Reserve. Diversity. 2026;18(3). [Open Access]

Family Buthidae 

The Scorpion Files News Blog has reached more than 3 000 000 visits!

 

In a 2 million visits celebration post in July last year I rhetorically asked: When will we reach three million visits? I got the answer faster than I expected! :)

The Scorpion Files News Blog has reach yet another milestone with more than three million visits since its start in 2008 (3002584)! The first post was published 08.02.08, and since there have been 1568  posts. I'm amazed that the interest for scorpions is so large and that the blog still is a source for information for the scorpion community.

A big thanks to all of you for supporting and using The Scorpion Files and The Scorpion Files News Blog! This wouldn't have been possible without your support and help.

I take the chance of paraphrasing myself from last year: When will we reach four million visits? :)

Jan Ove Rein
Editor

Thanks to ChatGPT for the illustration! 

 

Epidemiology of scorpion envenomations and antivenom use in Brazilian Amazon

 

Scorpion envenomation is a public health problem in many regions of Brazil. Brazil inhabits several dangerous species in the genus Tityus C. L. Koch, 1836 (Buthidae) and several of these are also known to thrive close to human activities or in urban areas. 

Jonas Martins and co-workers have recently published an epidemiological study on scorpion envenomations in Brazilian Amazon between 2010 to 2020. An important part of the study was also to look at the use of antivenoms in the treatment of serious sting cases.

Abstract:
Introduction: Scorpion envenomation in the Amazon causes variable clinical manifestations. Data on these incidents, as well as on the demand, distribution, and use of antivenoms for treatment, are still limited in the literature. This study describes the epidemiology of scorpion envenomation and antivenom coverage in the Legal Amazon area from 2010 to 2020.
Methods: Data on scorpion sting victims, such as sex, age, circumstances of the incident (including location and time), and severity of the case, were obtained from an open health data system called the Notifiable Diseases Information System. The data on antivenom use to treat scorpion stings in each Amazonian state was estimated from consolidated data from the Strategic Inputs Information System.
Results: From 2010 to 2020, 62,388 people were envenomed by scorpions in the Legal Amazon area, resulting in 118 deaths (a fatality rate of 0.19%). The regular distribution of antivenom by the Brazilian Ministry of Health resulted in the allocation of 109,276 vials to the region. However, only 62.2% (of the regional antivenom stockpile 67,994 vials) was used. The state of Pará recorded the highest number of deaths from scorpion stings (33% of total deaths) and the highest use of antivenom per year (∼2705 vials over the 10-y period). Tocantins presented the highest incidence rate, with 119 cases per 100,000 inhabitants.
Conclusion: Although the availability of antivenom in the Legal Amazon between 2010 and 2020 exceeded actual demand, this was not enough to prevent the deaths of 118 victims of scorpion stings. These fatalities primarily affected demographic groups without referral units in their regions and point to critical failures in the spatial distribution of emergency medical services. Rural communities at risk of animal envenomation in the Amazon need timely treatment, a crucial condition for saving lives.

Reference:
Martins JG, Ribeiro de Almeida BR, de Oliveira Pardal PP, de Lima Procópio RE. Scorpion Stings and Antivenom Coverage in the Brazilian Amazon. Wilderness Environ Med. 2026:1–10. [Subscription required for full text]

Thanks to Jonas for sending me this article! 

Discovery of lost holotype of Buthus barbouri Werner, 1932 results in new synonymization

 

Mohamed Mousaid and co-workers recently published the discovery of the previously lost holotype of the scorpion Buthus barbouri Werner, 1932 (Buthidae), later known as Androctonus barbouri (Werner, 1932). Analysis of the holotype have revealed a misidentification by several previous authors, and the true identity of the holotype is actually Hottentotta gentili (Pallary, 1924). 

Because of this, Androctonus barbouri (Werner, 1932) is synonymized with Hottentotta gentili (Pallary, 1924).

Abstract:
No abstract.

Reference:
Mousaid M, Flores Z, Rivera A, Lansari A, Bouazza A. Rediscovery of the enigmatic holotype of Buthus barbouri Werner, 1932 (Scorpiones: Buthidae), with a new synonymy. Zootaxa. 2026;5768(4):597–600. [Open Access]

Family Buthidae 

A phylogenetic analysis of the South American genus Urophonius with the description of a new species

 

Andrés Ojanguren-Affilastro and co-workers recently published a phylogenetic analysis of the genus Urophonius Pocock, 1893 (Bothriuridae) distributed in the southern parts of South America. A new high-altitude species from Chile is described. 

Urophonius andinus Ojanguren-Affilastro & Pizarro-Araya, 2026

 Urophonius is special in that most of the species are active during winter. The evolution of this and the physiological adaptions necessary for winter activities are discussed. 

Abstract:
This study presents the first total evidence dated phylogenetic analysis of the scorpion genus Urophonius, integrating 115 morphological characters and five molecular markers (28S, 18S, H3, 16S, COI). Our comprehensive phylogenetic framework provides novel insights into the genus’ diversification timeline and evolutionary processes. Additionally, we described Urophonius andinus n. sp. from the central Chilean Andes, a high-altitude species found at 2400 m.s.a.l., representing the highest elevational record for the genus. This new species is placed within the granulatus species group, characterized by a spring–summer activity period.

Reference:
Ojanguren‐Affilastro AA, Santibáñez‐López CE, Alfaro FM, Ramírez MJ, Iuri HA, Mattoni CI, et al. First total evidence dated phylogeny of the scorpion genus Urophonius (Bothriuridae), with new insights into the transition to winter activity, and the description of the first highland Andean species of the genus. Systematic Entomology. 2026;51(1):e70032. [Subscription required for full text]

Thanks to Victoria for sharing this article!

Family Bothriuridae 

A review of the taxa described by Carl Ludwig Koch in the series Die Arachniden (1836 - 1847)

 

Descriptions and publications of new taxa in the early days of scorpion taxonomy have often been challenging when it comes to publication dates and similar. The latter is important today in taxonomy to trace the history of the taxa and to establish priority.

The series "Die Arachniden" by Carl Wilhelm Hahn and Carl Ludwig Koch (1831–1847) exemplifies this problem. During the years of this publication, seven genera and 97 scorpion species were described by Kock. Today, 34 of these taxa are still valid. 

Javier Blasco-Aróstegui and co-workers recently published a list of C. L. Koch’s scorpion names with corrected publication dates and a guide to the proper citations for each part of Die Arachniden. Details can be found in the paper, but the following valid taxa has gotten a new year for their description (and are updated in The Scorpion Files):

Buthus halius (C. L. Koch, 1838). Previously 1839.

Buthus paris (C. L. Koch, 1838). Previously 1839.

Brotheas C. L. Koch, 1838. Previously 1837.

Franckeus nitidulus (C. L. Koch, 1842). Previously 1836.

Abstract:
Accurate publication dates are essential in taxonomy because they determine the availability and priority of scientific names. However, older works, often issued in multiple parts over several years, frequently recorded only the date of the final compiled volume, obscuring the true publication dates of individual parts. The series Die Arachniden by Carl Wilhelm Hahn and Carl Ludwig Koch (1831–1847) exemplifies this problem, with hundreds of arachnid species described across 16 volumes, including scorpions, spiders, and other orders. Many names have been synonymized, invalidated, or transferred, whereas ambiguous descriptions and type localities added further confusion. Carl Ludwig Koch described seven genera and 97 scorpion species, 34 of which remain valid more than 150 years later. The present contribution provides a list of C. L. Koch’s scorpion names with corrected publication dates and a guide to the proper citations for each part of Die Arachniden. Six nomina dubia are proposed: Androctonus thoas C. L. Koch, 1839, Brotheas maurus C. L. Koch, 1838, Tityus fatalis C. L. Koch, 1844, Tityus perfidus C. L. Koch, 1844, Tityus serenus C. L. Koch, 1844, and Vaejovis flavescens C. L. Koch, 1842. Similar efforts are recommended for other arachnid orders in the series to stabilize nomenclature.

Reference:
Blasco-Aróstegui J, Blick T, Prendini L. Scorpions described by Carl Ludwig Koch in Die Arachniden (1836–1847): correct publication dates, volume citations, and updated taxonomy. Arachnology. 2026;20(4):527–32. [Full text available only for BAS members].

Thanks to the late Gerard Dupre, who sent me this article a few days before his passing!