A revision of the rare genus Liobuthus with a description of four new species from Central Asia

 

The genus Liobuthus Birula, 1898 (Buthidae) is a rare, psammophilic genus with one species from Central Asia. Victor Fet and co-workers recently published a revision of the genus, and based on DNA-analysis and morphology, four new species are described.

Liobuthus atamuradovi (Turkmenistan)

Liobuthus danovi (Kazakhstan, Northern Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan)

Liobuthus shukurovi (Southwestern Tajikistan)

Liobuthus vachoni (Southern Kazakhstan)

An identification key for the five species in the genus is included.

Abstract:
The rare Central Asian psammophilic scorpion genus, Liobuthus Birula, 1898 (Scorpiones: Buthidae), is revised. Five species are delineated according to results from three species delimitation approaches using mitochondrial DNA. Results are supported by diagnostic morphology, including an assessment of the distinctive neobothriotaxy. The type species, L. kessleri Birula, 1898, is confirmed for Iran (northeast), Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan (south). Four new species are described: L. atamuradovi sp. n. (Turkmenistan), L. danovi sp. n. (Kazakhstan, northern Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan), L. shukurovi sp. n. (southwestern Tajikistan), and L. vachoni sp. n. (southern Kazakhstan), The unique additive neobothriotaxy (on both pedipalp femur and patella) first discovered by Vachon (1958) is confirmed and analyzed.

Reference:
Fet V, Kovarik F, Lowe G, Graham MR. A revision of the psammophilic genus Liobuthus Birula, 1898 (Scorpiones: Buthidae), with a description of four new species from Central Asia. Euscorpius. 2026(427):1–67. [Open Access]

family Buthidae 

A new species of Scorpio from northern Iraq

 

Ersen Yagmur and co-workers recently published an article describing a new species of Scorpio Linnaeus, 1758 (Scorpionidae) from northern Iraq.

Scorpio assyriacus Yagmur, Kachel, Hussen, Al-Jubouri & Al-Khazali, 2026 

Abstract:
Scorpio assyriacus sp. n., from northern Iraq is described illustrated and compared with all known species of the genus Scorpio Linnaeus, 1758, occurring in Turkey, the Middle East, and Iran. Aspects of the ecology and distribution of the new species are discussed and compared with those of other closely related Scorpio species from nearby localities in Turkey. The new species can be distinguished by its reduced number of pectinal teeth, the cardial-triangular configuration of the genital operculum (which is not posteriorly elongated in females), a more hirsute body, globular vesicle, flattened and discrete granules on the external surface of the chela manus, and significantly longer chela fingers compared to other species. With this discovery, the total number of documented scorpion species in Iraq has reached 23.

Reference:
Yagmur EA, Kachel HS, Hussen FS, Al-Khazali AM, Ali FR, Al-Jubouri MAK, et al. A new Scorpio (Scorpiones, Scorpionidae) species from Northern Iraq. Zoodiversity. 2026;60(1):1–15. [Open Access]

Thanks to Ersen for sending me their article!

Family Scorpionidae 

A new cave-dwelling scorpion from Brazil

 

More or less obligatory, cave-dwelling scorpions are found in several areas. Some with distinct troglomorphic traits like reduced pigmentation and the lack of eyes. Jonas Eduardo Gallão and Deyvison Bonfim Ribeiro have recently described a new obligatory, subterranean species in the genus Troglorhopalurus Lourenço, Baptista & Giupponi, 2004 (Buthidae) from three caves in Ituaçu, State of Bahia in Brazil.

Troglorhopalurus araras Gallão & Ribeiro, 2026

The new species lack typical troglomorphic traits except for having thinner cuticle than normal. This may represent a troglomorphic trait.

An identification guide for the genus is presented. Please note that this guide (and article) is missing Troglorhopalurus iuiu Carvalho, Silva, Emanuela de Souza & Feirreira, 2025. According to the authors, the reason for this was that they weren't aware of the description of this species when the paper was submitted. [Info about the missing species updated 02.03.26]

Abstract:
We describe Troglorhopalurus araras sp. n. based only on females, as a new obligatory and exclusively subterranean scorpion occurring in three caves from Ituaçu, State of Bahia, Brazil. The caves of Ituaçu belong to an isolated portion of the Una geomorphological group. Troglorhopalurus araras is the third known species of Troglorhopalurus and differs from its congeners by size, carination mainly in chela hand and metasoma, teeth of pecten, shape of telson spine, and colour. This new species enhances the diversity of cave-dwelling species in Brazilian caves, as well as the knowledge of cave scorpions. Troglorhopalurus araras must be considered threatened due to its restricted endemism at caves in the Chapada Diamantina.

Reference:
Gallão JE, Ribeiro DB. Troglorhopalurus araras (Scorpiones: Buthidae) a new subterranean scorpion from Chapada Diamantina, Bahia, Brazil. Journal of Natural History. 2026;60(9-12):557–72. [Subscription required for full text]

Family Buthidae 

Predicting the occurence of dangerous scorpions based on analysis of environmental conditions

 

Scorpions are a medical problem in many countries and regions, but often the knowledge of which species are found were is limited. In a recent paper, Fouad Salhi and co-workers have presented a study from Morocco where they have tried to use ecological niche modelling to predict scorpion distribution based on the scorpions environmental requirements.

It seems that soil type is the strongest predictor of where many scorpions live, while temperature, including both average conditions and seasonal swings, seem to play a major role for some of the species studied in Morocco.

The model used is very promising and can be an important tools for government agencies working to prevent and reduce public health challenges related to scorpion stings. 

Abstract:
Ecological niche modelling (ENM) is a powerful analytical approach for predicting species distribution by elucidating their environmental requirements. The present study used the MaxEnt approach, integrating high-resolution environmental data and extensive in situ observations, to create habitat suitability maps for 19 scorpion species in central Morocco and assess the influence of environmental variables on their distribution. The models demonstrate excellent predictive ability, highlighted by area under the curve (AUC) values systematically greater than 0.9. Soil type emerged as the most influential environmental variable for 74% of species, while the remaining taxa were mainly affected by temperature annual range and annual mean temperature. Habitat suitability maps revealed distinct habitat preferences between species. H. gentili is a habitat generalist, showing a broad predicted distribution covering 62% of the study area, while A. bourdoni (0.14%), B. parroti (0.13%), O. innesi (0.62%) and B. atlantis (0.55%) showed a very restricted prediction of suitable habitats. This species-specific information on habitat conditions is essential not only to improve our understanding of their ecology, but also to formulate more effective public health strategies aimed at reducing the frequency of scorpion envenomings in Morocco.

Reference:
Salhi F, Elbahi A, Ouakri N, Lawton C, Abou Oualid J, Dugon MM. Ecological Niche Modelling and Distribution of Scorpion Fauna in Central Morocco: A MaxEnt Study. Environmental Research Communications. 2026;8:025008. [Open Access]

 

Differences in pedipalp form and size affect courtship behavior in Tityus species

 

Differences in male morphology within the same species have been observed in many species. In a recent paper, Lais Pordeus and Andre Lira show that differences in the male pedipalp chela in Tityus pusillus Lourenço, 2013 (Buthidae) are associated with differences in reproductive behavior. Males with "robust" pedipalp chela performed a higher number of reproductive attempts and female manipulations than than males with "gracile" chela.

Interestingly, the reproductive success of the males in the two groups was quite similar.

Abstract:
This study investigates male pedipalp chela dimorphism and its association with reproductive behaviour in the litter-dwelling scorpion, Tityus pusillus. Using geometric morphometrics, two distinct male morphotypes were identified based on pedipalp chela shape: robust and gracile. These morphotypes were associated with measurable variation in courtship behaviour aspects. Males with robust chelae performed a higher number of reproductive attempts and female manipulations than gracile-chela males, although these differences were not statistically significant. Notably, robust-chela males completed courtship significantly faster than gracile-chelae males (8.03 ± 5.14 minutes vs. 18.40 ± 13.84 minutes), measured as the time until mating successful conclusion. Both morphotypes exhibited similar reproductive success rates (37% and 31%, respectively). These results indicate that robust and gracile differ in courtship dynamics, particularly in courtship duration and patterns of female handling. Variation in female resistance during courtship may help explain why male reproductive behaviours vary. This study documents male chela dimorphism in T. pusillus and reports its correlation with variation in courtship behaviour.

Reference:
Pordeus LM, Lira AFA. Dimorphism in male pedipalps affects the reproductive behaviour in the litter-dwelling scorpion Tityus pusillus Pocock, 1893 (Scorpiones: Buthidae). Invertebrate Reproduction & Development. 2026;Published online 17 Feb 2026. [Subscription required for full text]

A new species of the medical important genus Hemiscorpius from northern Iraq

 

Fenik Sherzad Hussen and co-workers have recently published an article with the description of a new species in the medical important genus Hemiscorpius Peters, 1861 (Hemiscorpiidae) from Kurdistan in Iraq.

Hemiscorpius kurdistanus Hussen, Kadir, Ahmed & Prendini, 2026

Abstract:
The scorpion genus Hemiscorpius Peters, 1861 is renowned for its medically important species, particularly Hemiscorpius lepturus Peters, 1861, the type species of the genus and only species previously recorded in Iraq. However, the scorpion diversity of the rugged, arid landscapes of the Kurdistan Region, especially Erbil Governorate, in northern Iraq, remains largely unknown. Extensive fieldwork in Erbil Province in 2024 resulted in the discovery of a previously unknown species, described herein as Hemiscorpius kurdistanus sp. n. The Halgurd-Sakran Mountains in the Bradost Region, to which it appears to be endemic, probably played a role in its speciation, providing a barrier that contributed to geographical isolation. The new discovery supports the hypothesis that Kurdistan represents an area of endemism for arthropods due to its isolation and unique environmental conditions. The addition of a new, potentially medically important scorpion species to the Iraqi fauna emphasizes the need for continued studies on the systematics of Hemiscorpius and other scorpion taxa as well as updated public health awareness and envenomation management strategies across the Middle East.

Reference:
Hussen FS, Kadir HS, Ahmed AI, Prendini L. A New Species of the Medically Important Scorpion Genus Hemiscorpius Peters, 1861 (Hemiscorpiidae Pocock, 1893) from Kurdistan, Iraq. Diversity. 2026;18(2):121. [Open Access]

Thanks to Gerard for sending me this article!

Family Hemiscorpiidae

First DNA barcode records for the buthid Parabuthus liosoma in Saudi Arabia.

 

Ahmed Badry and co-workers recently published a study of DNA barcoding and phylogeny of Parabuthus liosoma (Ehrenberg, 1828) (Buthidae) from Saudi Arabia. This is the first DNA barcode records for this species, and the study gives insight into identification, taxonomy and phylogeny of Parabuthus in Saudia Arabia.

Abstract:
1) Background. Parabuthus liosoma is one of the largest buthid scorpion species and is endemic to Saudi Arabia and Yemen. This study provides the first DNA barcoding and phylogenetic analysis of P. liosoma from Saudi Arabia, contributing to global efforts in arachnid molecular identification and biodiversity documentation. (2) Methods. The whole genome was extracted from nine adult individuals of P. liosoma, collected from Farasan Island, southwest of Saudi Arabia. A portion of the mitochondrial DNA, specifically, the cytochrome oxidase subunit I gene (COI) sequences, was amplified and sequenced and subjected to genetic and phylogenetic analyses. (3) Results. The DNA barcoding results revealed a high level of genetic variability within P. liosoma, aiding in species identification and supporting its utility as a molecular tool for scorpion taxonomy. In addition, our results reveal a monophyletic relationship among Parabuthus species, with a clear distinction between Arabian and African lineages. (4) Conclusions. This study highlights the effectiveness of DNA barcoding as a reliable tool for species identification and taxonomy and enhances our knowledge of the evolutionary history and geographic distribution of Parabuthus scorpions. However, further research is required to elucidate the complex phylogenetic relationships within this genus.

Reference:
Badry A, Al-Qahtni AH, Al-Salem AM, Al Balawi MS, Mesfer F, Allahyani WS, et al. DNA Barcoding and Phylogenetic Relationship of Parabuthus liosoma (Ehrenberg, 1828) (Scorpiones: Buthidae) in Saudi Arabia. Biology. 2026;15(4):321. [Open Access]

Thanks to  Luis Roque (Arácnido Taxonomy https://www.aracnidotaxonomy.com) for sending me this article!

Family Buthide 

A review of the Centruroides fauna of Panama

 

Roberto Miranda and co-workers have recently published a review of the Centruroides Marx, 1890 (Buthidae) fauna of Panama. Five species are confirmed for Panama, but the reports of two more species that may have been introduced/may be present are discussed. An identification key of all seven species is included. The article includes information about distribution, habitats, natural history and medical importance of the species from Panama.

Abstract:
This review examines the taxonomy, distribution, natural history and scorpionism of the Centruroides species (Scorpiones: Buthidae) of Panama. A taxonomic key is provided to easily identify the five confirmed species from Panama, but also including Centruroides edwardsii (Gervais, 1843) and Centruroides gracilis (Latreille, 1804). The recently reported first record of C. edwardsii in Panama seems to be based on misidentified specimens that belong to Centruroides granosus (Thorell, 1876), a Panamanian endemic species, or Centruroides margaritatus (Gervais, 1841), an introduced synanthropic species. Centruroides gracilis may potentially be present in this country. Only C. granosus and Centruroides panamensis Quintero and Esposito, 2014 are Panamanian endemics, whereas C. granosus and C. bicolor (Pocock, 1898) are the most widely distributed species in this Central American country. Envenomations by these species are frequent in Panama, but generally cause mild symptoms. Maps showing the distribution of the Panamanian Centruroides species are presented.

Reference:
Miranda RJ, De Armas LF, Cleghorn J, Lezcano JJ, Castillo LY, Cambra RA, et al. The species of the genus Centruroides Marx, 1890 (Scorpiones: Buthidae) from Panama. Zootaxa. 2026;5752(3):301–47. [Subscription required for full text]

Thanks to William Phillips for sending me this article!

Family Buthidae 

How much do people living close to scorpions know about the scorpion’s biology and how to deal with envenomations

 

Scorpions and humans are neighbors in many areas, and this is also the case in many towns and regions in Brazil. This cohabitation will sometimes pose challenges, as scorpions may sting humans and some of them are also quite dangerous. There are many articles dealing with this topic, but few articles have studies the general knowledge local peoples have about scorpion biology and treatment of sting cases.

Luiza Eulália de Azevedo Gonzaga and co-workers published last fall a study where adults locals in a few communities in Brazil were asked to answer a questionnaire about their knowledge about the local scorpion fauna. Interestingly, many of the respondents showed quite good knowledge about the local scorpion's ecological and biological characteristics. Quite a few respondents respected the ecological importance of scorpions, but most of them also admitted fear for this group. More than 70% of them had either been stung or knew about somebody been stung by scorpions. The respondents reported both the use of official medicine (e.g., analgesics) and traditional remedies (the article has a list of these). 

The authors recommend community-based conservation programs that should integrate local knowledge with public health strategies to improve the cohabitation between scorpions and humans.

Abstract:
Scorpions are voracious predators that play crucial roles in maintaining ecological balance within food chains. However, they are also notorious for their venom. Understanding ecological knowledge within local populations helps illuminate the intricate relationship between humans and nature. This study investigates the ecological knowledge and uses of scorpion fauna in three municipalities (Caetés, Cumaru, and Limoeiro) in Pernambuco state, Northeast Brazil—primarily engaged in agricultural activities. We administered a 25-question questionnaire, made available online to adult residents, designed to capture their experiences and perceptions regarding these invertebrates. A total of 121 responses were collected (42 from Caetés, 40 from Limoeiro, and 39 from Cumaru). Results revealed that over 70% of participants had either been victims of scorpion stings or knew someone who had experienced scorpionism. Traditional methods, including substances such as milk, alcohol, ice, and even the scorpion itself, were employed in 33% of cases to treat stings, highlighting gaps in public health education regarding venomous sting management. Respondents classified scorpions within the “insect” ethnocategory and used color to distinguish ethnospecies: yellow, red, and black scorpions. Notably, 88.4% of respondents acknowledged the ecological importance of these creatures, while 79.3% admitted fear of them, yet over 60% recognized their significance for humans. This tension underscores opportunities for community-based conservation programs that integrate local knowledge with public health strategies. The alignment between local perceptions and scientific references suggests potential for integrated approaches to mitigate scorpion-related risks while preserving their ecological roles in agricultural landscapes.

Reference:
de Azevedo Gonzaga LE, de Lima JR, da Silva MA, de Moura GJB, de Araujo Lira AF. Traditional ecological knowledge of scorpions in human communities in a Brazilian semiarid region. International Journal of Tropical Insect Science. 2025;Published 27 November 2025. [Subscription required for full text]

Pregnant woman stung by Parabuthus maximus in Kenya

 

I usually do not blog all scorpion envenomation reports, but I found this one of special interest as the victim was a pregnant women and the case involved a Parabuthus Pocock, 1890 (Buthidae) species from Kenya. We know quite a lot about the consequences of Parabuthus envenomations from southern Africa, but there are fewer documented cases from East Africa.

Felix Pius Omullo recently published a case report involving a 36 week pregnant women stung by a confirmed Parabuthus maximus Werner, 1913 (Buthidae) in Kenya. Thanks to quick treatment and administration of species-specific antivenom, both the mother and the fetus improved quickly. Both mother and the baby were well two weeks after the baby was born. 

The article discusses the case and the interventions necessary in cases like this.

PS! The dark discoloration shown in the picture of the sting site on the heel is due to traditional medicine first aid using a pasty substance made of a mixture of Kiwi shoe polish and Colgate toothpaste.

Abstract:
BACKGROUND
Scorpion envenomation in pregnancy is a rare but potentially fatal obstetric emergency, with limited evidence on optimal management and antivenom safety. Neurotoxic venom induces autonomic storms, threatening maternal cardiovascular stability and uteroplacental perfusion, which can lead to fetal distress or demise.

CASE SUMMARY
A 31-year-old gravida 4, para 3 woman at 36 weeks’ gestation presented 30 minutes after a confirmed Parabuthus maximus sting to her right foot. She manifested systemic envenomation, including agitation, profuse sweating, tachycardia (142 bpm), and hypertension (168/102 mmHg). Cardiotocography revealed fetal tachycardia (175-180 bpm). A multidisciplinary team initiated intravenous morphine, midazolam, and species-specific antivenom (South African Vaccine Producers Polyvalent Scorpion Antivenom), resulting in the resolution of maternal and fetal symptoms within 12 hours. Critically, antivenom was administered within 40 minutes of the sting, which likely contributed to the rapid reversal of the catecholamine surge. A key factor enabling this rapid and targeted response was the patient’s action of capturing the scorpion, allowing for precise species identification. The pregnancy progressed uneventfully to term, culminating in an uncomplicated vaginal delivery of a healthy infant.

CONCLUSION
This case illustrates that scorpion envenomation in late pregnancy poses a dual threat to both maternal and fetal well-being. Prompt recognition, continuous fetal monitoring, and the very early administration of antivenom-buttressed by multidisciplinary care-can avert catastrophic outcomes. This case provides supporting evidence that antivenom can be safe and effective during the third trimester, even in resource-constrained environments. Public education on safe first aid, including bringing the scorpion for identification, is essential.

Reference:
Omullo FP. Successful management of third-trimester scorpion envenomation (Parabuthus maximus) in a resource-limited setting: A case report. World J Clin Cases. 2026;14(2):114762. [Open Access]