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

New study on taxonomy, distribution and habitat of the medical important genus Hemiscorpius in Iran

 

The genus Hemiscorpius Peters, 1861 (Hemiscorpiidae) is the probably the main scorpion taxa outside the family Buthidae that can cause death and serious morbidity in humans. This genus is represented with eight species in Iran and information about taxonomy, distribution and habitat preferences is very information to prevent sting cases.

Hossein Dehghan and co-workers have recently published a study on morphology, genetics, and ecological niche modeling to clarify the taxonomy and distribution of Hemiscorpius in southern Iran. The study also resulted in a new species from the Kerman Province.  

Hemiscorpius aratta Barahoei & Prendini, 2025

Abstract:
Eight species of the medically important scorpion genus Hemiscorpius Peters, 1861 have been reported in Iran, three of which are responsible for most of the severe clinical cases of envenomation. However, morphological similarity complicates species delimitation in this genus, hindering the identification of species implicated in envenomations. The present study integrates morphology, DNA sequences, and ecological niche modeling to clarify the taxonomy and distribution of Hemiscorpius in southern Iran, providing taxonomic insights relevant to public health and biodiversity conservation. Morphometric analyses were performed to evaluate size and shape differences; molecular phylogenetic analyses were conducted on DNA sequences of the mitochondrial Cytochrome c Oxidase Subunit I gene; and species distribution models, based on occurrence records and bioclimatic variables, were developed. Morphometric analyses revealed significant interspecific differences and sexual dimorphism. A new species was identified and described as Hemiscorpius aratta sp. n. Molecular phylogenetic analysis confirmed the distinctiveness of the new species and revealed intraspecific variation in the type species, Hemiscorpius lepturus Peters, 1861, suggesting possible cryptic diversity. Southern Iran, particularly the coastline of the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman, represents a diversity hotspot for Hemiscorpius. Topographical barriers such as the Jebal Barez, Makkoran, and Zagros Mountain ranges promoted isolation and speciation, leading to high levels of endemism in the genus. Ecological niche models revealed that the distributions of Hemiscorpius species are strongly influenced by temperature and precipitation. Coastal species are restricted to thermally stable maritime habitats, whereas semi-arid species occupy regions with higher temperature seasonality. Range-restricted species are habitat specialists, vulnerable to environmental change. This study reinforces the importance of integrating morphological, molecular, and ecological data for resolving taxonomic ambiguity.

Reference:
Dehghan H, Amiri Ghanat Saman E, Madjdzadeh SM, Amiri M, Moeinadini A, Prendini L, et al. Molecules, Morphometrics and Modeling of the Medically Important Genus Hemiscorpius Peters, 1861 (Scorpiones: Hemiscorpiidae) in Iran Reveal New Species from Kerman. Insects. 2025;17(1):18. [Open Access]

Thanks to Gerard for informing me about this article!

Family Hemiscorpiidae 

 

A new species in the medical important genus Hemiscorpius from Southern Iran

 

Esmaeil Amiri Ghanat Saman and co-workers have recently described a new species of Hemiscorpius Peters, 1861 (Hemiscorpiidae) based on genetic and morphological evidence from Southern Iran.

Hemiscorpius jiroftensis Saman, Barahooei, Dehghan, Oshaghi, Rafinejad, Azarm & Prendini, 2025

Abstract:
Seven species of Hemiscorpius Peters, 1861 have been recorded in Iran. Due to the medical importance of this genus, the scorpion populations of southern Kerman Province, in the south of Iran, were studied. Scorpion specimens were collected in 2023 and 2024 from mountainous areas in Bam and Jiroft counties. Morphological, morphometric, and molecular data revealed a new species, described herein as Hemiscorpius jiroftensis sp. n. The genetic distances between the new species and other species of Hemiscorpius varied from 0.105 with samples of H. lepturus from Iran to 0.138 with samples of H. enischnochela. The Jebal Barez Mountains appear to have provided a geographical barrier, separating the new species from its closest relative, Hemiscorpius acanthocercus Monod & Lourenço, 2005. It is important to understand the geographical distributions and morphological differences among the species of Hemiscorpius to implement appropriate medical responses to envenomation by these scorpions.

Reference:
Saman EAG, Barahoei H, Dehghan H, Oshaghi MA, Rafinejad J, Azarm A, et al. A New Species of the Medically Important Scorpion Genus, Hemiscorpius Peters, 1861 (Hemiscorpiidae), from Southern Iran. Diversity. 2025;17(5):321. [Open Access]

Thanks to Gerard for sending me this article!

Family Hemiscorpiidae

A new species of Hemiscorpius from the Horn of Africa

 

Frantisek Kovarik and co-workers recently published a overview of the Hemiscorpius Peters, 1861 (Hemiscorpiidae) species known from the Horn of Africa. A new species is described from Somaliland.

Hemiscorpius huluul Kovarik, Elmi & Stahlavsky, 2025

The article has an identification key for the five species known from the Horn of Africa.

Abstract:
Occurrence of the rare in the Horn of Africa genus Hemiscorpius Peters, 1861 (Scorpiones: Hemiscorpiidae) is summarized, including a distribution map. A male of Hemiscorpius lipsae Kovařík & Lowe, 2022 from Djibouti is described for the first time. A new species Hemiscorpius huluul sp. n. from Somaliland is described, fully complemented with color photographs.

Reference:
Kovarik F, Elmi HSA, Stahlavsky F. Scorpions of the Horn of Africa (Arachnida, Scorpiones). Part XXXVII. The genus Hemiscorpius (Hemiscorpiidae). Euscorpius. 2025(411):1-24. [Open Access]

Family Hemiscorpiidae

Molecular study of medical important Hemiscorpius species from Iran

 

Correct identification of medical important scorpions is very important to be able to provide optimal treatment. Many species are morphological similar and this will make correct identification difficult. This is the case with many species of Hemiscorpius  Peters, 1861 (Hemiscorpiidae) in Iran. 

Shahi and Barahoei have recently published a molecular study on the Hemiscorpius fauna in the Hormozgan province in southern Iran. The study confirms the validity of the following three species in the genus:

Hemiscorpius acanthocercus Monod & Lourenço, 2005
Hemiscorpius enischnochela Monod & Lourenço, 2005
Hemiscorpius lepturus Peters, 1861

This is important information as the available antivenom for this genus do not work optimal inn all cases and this might be because there are different species involved. 

Abstract:
Three species of Hemiscorpius were identified in Hormozgan province, for which the available antivenoms lack the efficacy required for treating patients. Consequently, an exact identification of the existing species was deemed necessary as the first step in managing treatment procedures. Considering the morphological similarities among the species, the aim of this research was the molecular study of the samples to accurately identify the species. Hemiscorpius specimens were collected from various locations in Hormozgan province between 2021 to 2023. The Cytochrome c oxidase subunit I gene was amplified and sequenced. Four sequences were obtained from Hemiscorpius specimens collected from Hormozgan province, and three sequences were sourced from the NCBI for analysis. Bayesian inference and Maximum likelihood phylogenetic trees showed similar results, positioning the base of Hemiscorpius enischnochela tree as an older species and Hemiscorpius lepturus adjacent to Hemiscorpius acanthocercus, identified as the newest species at the tree's tip. The results confirmed the validity of three species, namely H. acanthocercus, H. enischnochela, and H. lepturus. Hemiscorpius acanthocercus and H. lepturus are known for having dangerous venom for humans with reported deaths due to their stings. Considering the importance of the members of this genus from the medical point of view, a comprehensive examination of all species is imperative.

Reference:
Shahi M, Barahoei H. Molecular study of Hemiscorpius Peters (Scorpiones: Hemiscorpiidae) in Hormozgan province, South of Iran. Arch Razi Inst. 2024;79(1):211-7. [Open Access]

Family Hemiscorpiidae

Detailed morphology description and images of the medical important scorpion Hemiscorpius lepturus

 

Fenik Sherzad Hussen and co-workers recently published a study with a detailed description of the morphology of Hemiscorpius lepturus Peters, 1861 (Hemiscorpiidae). The article also includes detailed morphological images taken by a scanning electron microscope (SEM). 

Abstract:
Hemiscorpius lepturus Peters, 1861 is redefined in both sexes. The detailed external morphologies of chelae, pectinal organs, chelicerae, telsons, and legs I–IV were surveyed with the scanning electron microscope (SEM) in both sexes of H. lepturus for the first time. The constellation arrays, batlike shaped peg sensilla, trichobothria, and the other sensillar and epicuticular structures were described, and their functional morphologies were interpreted considering the species’ habitat and other climatic preferences. The constellation arrays, basiconic sensilla, function as a chemoreceptor (hygro-reception or/and thermo-reception) by its location on the pedipalp in the habitat. The shape of the peg sensilla is remarkably bat-like in both sexes and this shape has not been observed or recorded in any scorpion species, functioning as mechanoreception and contact chemoreception. There are three slit sensilla as single slit, dual and triple slit sensilla on I–IV walking legs, being mechanoreceptors as proprioceptors detecting strain and substrate vibrations during movement. Isolated single slit sensillum was recorded on the chelicerae surface of a scorpion species for the first time.

Reference:
Hussen FS, Erdek M, Yagmur EA. External morphology of Hemiscorpius lepturus Peters, 1861 (Scorpiones: Hemiscorpiidae). Arthropoda Selecta. 2023;32(4):419-37. [Open Access]

Thanks to Ersen for sending me their article!

An update on the scorpion fauna of Djibouti

 

Frantisek Kovarik and Graeme Lowe have published a new paper from their ongoing studies of the scorpions of the Horn of Africa. In the recent study they focus on scorpions from Djibouti based on new materials. All known species are listed with information and pictures and the following taxonomical decisions have been made:

New species:

Hemiscorpius lipsae Kovarik & Lowe, 2022 (family Hemiscorpiidae) 

Synonymizations:

Orthochirus borrii Rossi, 2017 (Buthidae) is synonymized with O. afar Kovařík & Lowe, 2016. NB! O. borriiwas never registered in The Scorpion Files.

Orthochirus aristidis (Simon, 1882) (Buthidae) is returned to synonymy with O. olivaceus Karsch, 1881.

Orthochirus arenicola Lourenço & Ythier, 2021 (Buthidae) is considered nomen dubium.

The article also has a revision of the diagnosis of Orthochirus afar Kovařík & Lowe, 2016 (Buthidae).

Abstract:
All scorpion species known from Djibouti are listed, with color photographs and maps of their distribution. Buthus awashensis Kovařík, 2011 known from Ethiopia and Somaliland is reported for the first time from Djibouti. The diagnosis of Orthochirus afar Kovařík & Lowe, 2016 is revised; O. borrii Rossi, 2017 is determined to be a junior synonym of O. afar Kovařík & Lowe, 2016 syn. n.; O. aristidis (Simon, 1882) syn. res. is returned to synonymy with O. olivaceus Karsch, 1881; and O. arenicola Lourenço & Ythier, 2021, is relegated to the status of nomen dubium. Hemiscorpius lipsae sp. n. is described and fully complemented with color photos of the female holotype and its habitat.

Reference:
Kovarik F, Lowe G. Scorpions of the Horn of Africa (Arachnida, Scorpiones). Part XXVIII. Scorpions of Djibouti. Euscorpius. 2022(357):1-31.

Family Buthidae

Family Hemiscoriidae

A review of the scorpions the Arab Countries of the Middle East and their medical importance

 

Zuhair Amr and co-workers have recently published a review on the scorpions of the Arab countries of the Middle East. The article presents a list of scorpions known from the different countries and species of medical importance, treatment and epidemiological data are also given. This is a nice update to the knowledge of the scorpion fauna of this region and its impact on the human population.

Abstract:
The twelve Arab countries of the Middle East are inhabited by 117 species of scorpions of varying medical importance within six families. Scorpion stings are a very common occurrence throughout the region. Twentytwo scorpion species are considered to be dangerously venomous, causing potentially life threatening stings. Accessible literature in English and Arabic on scorpions, scorpion stings and available antivenoms was reviewed to document the scorpion fauna and scorpion stings in each country. Saudi Arabia, Iraq and Jordan report the highest numbers of stings and envenomings. Clinically, the most important toxins in Old World scorpion venoms are α-toxins that target voltage-gated sodium (Nav) channels at neurotoxin binding site 3, causing sympathetic excitation and the endogenous release of catecholamines that is responsible for transient, but life-threatening myocardial damage. Most victims of scorpion stings suffer severe local pain, but a few, especially children, develop systemic envenoming which, in the case of most Middle Eastern buthid species, such as Androctonus and Leiurus species, is dominated by the cardiovascular and respiratory consequences of hypercatecholinaemic myocarditis. Other syndromes include paralysis (Parabuthus leiosoma), coagulopathy (Nebo hierichonticus and Hemiscorpius species), and local tissue damage, haemolysis and acute kidney injury (H. lepturus). Early antivenom treatment is recommended but its value remains controversial. However, intensive care, with the ancillary use of vasoactive drugs such as prazosin and dobutamine, has proved effective.

Reference:
Amr Z, Abu Baker M, Al-Saraireh M, Warrell D. Scorpions and scorpion sting envenoming (scorpionism) in the Arab Countries of the Middle East. Toxicon. 2021;191:83-103. [Subscription required for full text]

A review on the scorpionism by the genus Hemiscorpius in Iran

The majority of the literature on scorpionism and medical important scorpions is focused on species on the family Buthidae. But many of the species in the family Hemiscorpiidae can also cause death or serious morbidity. Interestingly, the symptoms of Hemiscorpius Peters, 1861 envenomations are different from the traditional envenomations by buthids. E. g. a sting by the latter will immediately cause pain, while the sting of a Hemiscorpius is usually painless and the patient risk not knowing that a sting has occurred until more serious symptoms occur.

Rouhullah Dehghani and co-workers have now published an interesting review on the scorpionism by Hemiscorpius scorpions in Iran summing up the knowledge on envenomations from these potential dangerous species.

Abstract:
Scorpions are distributed throughout Iran and the genus Hemiscorpius is particularly important in this region. Hemiscorpius lepturus is the most significant species within the genus in the country. Since scorpionism provoked by Hemiscorpius comprises a medical emergency, the present study is focused on this important issue. In order to perform the present work, a review of the medical and health-related literature was carried out in several databases. The current findings indicate that six species of Hemiscorpius are found in 15 states of Iran, mainly in the south and southwest. Deaths caused by stings were reported only for two species. The morphological characteristics and geographical distribution of H. lepturus in Iran, its venom and the toxic compounds, epidemiologic data and clinical manifestations of envenomation as well as treatment for affected people are herein reviewed and described. H. lepturus venom toxicity differs from other Iranian scorpions regarding duration and severity. Scorpionism is an important public health problem in Iran, especially in southwest and south regions and in urban areas. It is more prevalent in children and young people. H. lepturus venom is primarily a cytotoxic agent and has hemolytic, nephrotoxic and to some extent hepatotoxic activity. The use of polyvalent antivenom to prevent scorpion sting symptoms is recommended. A well-planned health education program might be useful in preventing scorpionism.

Reference:
Dehghani R, Kamiabi F, Mohammadi M. Scorpionism by Hemiscorpius spp. in Iran: a review. J Venom Anim Toxins Incl Trop Dis. 2018;24:8. [Open Access]

Family Hemiscorpiidae

A new species of Hemiscorpius from Iran

Frantisek Kovarik and co-workers have recently published a new species in the medical significant genus Hemiscorpius Peters, 1861 (Hemiscorpiidae) from Iran.

Hemiscorpius shahii Kovarik, Navidour & Soleglad, 2017

Abstract:
Hemiscorpius shahii sp. n. from Iran, Hormozgan Province, is described and compared with other species of Hemiscorpius genus. The new species is characterized mainly by total length of 84 (female) to 110.7 (male) mm and unique trichobothrial pattern of pedipalp patella. The number of external trichobothria on patella is 17–18 (5 eb, 4 esb, 2–3 em, 3 est, 3 et); the number of ventral trichobothria on patella is 14–16. This distinguishes H. shahii sp. n. from all other species of genus Hemiscorpius, which have 3 or 10–12 ventral trichobothria on patella, one or two trichobothria in patella est series, and two or three trichobothria in esb series.

Reference:
Kovarik F, Navidpour S, Soleglad ME. Hemiscorpius shahii sp. n. from Iran (Scorpiones: Hemiscorpiidae). Euscorpius. 2017(249):1-9. [Open Access]

Family Hemsicorpiidae

Scorpion of medical importance and their identification

Scorpions are quite a diverse group with 2301 species around the world (pr 01.08.16). Even though infamous, most scorpions are quite harmless and perhaps around 50 species can cause death or serious morbidity in humans.

The challenge in scorpion sting cases is the correct identification of the scorpion involved. Incomplete identification or misidentification happens, and in some cases this can cause inefficacy in the treatment of the symptoms caused by a dangerous species (or even worsen the outcome).

In a recent article, Wilson Lourenco attempts to explain and elucidate a number of common problems in scorpion identification, taxonomy, distribution and biogeography. The article is written in a language making it possible for non-zoologists to understand and in this way increasing the knowledge about scorpions for both professionals and amateurs. Hopefully, this will also be a tool for those treating scorpion sting patients.

Abstract:
The aim of this contribution is to bring general information on the classification and in particular on the specific identification of scorpion species dangerous to humans. Several generic groups are taken into consideration, but the Neotropical genus Tityus C. L. Koch, 1836 is used as a major example. The content of this paper is mostly addressed to non-specialists whose research embraces scorpions in several fields such as venom toxins and public health. Although efforts have been made in the last 20 years to create better links between ‘true scorpion experts’ and non-specialists who use scorpions in their research, such exchanges had never led to a consensus among those different branches of biological and medical research. Consequently, many cases of species misidentification and even more serious errors concerning scorpion classification/identification are often present in the specialized literature. In conclusion, it is suggested here that the frequent cases of misidentification observed in several reports may induce mistakes in the final interpretation of results, leading only to more inefficacity in the treatment of problems caused by infamous scorpion species.

Reference:
Lourenco WR. Scorpion incidents, misidentification cases and possible implications for the final interpretation of results. J Venom Anim Toxins Incl Trop Dis. 2016;22:1. [Open Access]

First report of death due to Hemiscorpius acanthocercus envenomation in Iran

It has been well known for a long time that the non-buthid species Hemiscorpius lepturus Peters, 1861 (Hemiscorpiidae) is dangerous and have caused serious morbidity and even death. Now, Mehran Shahi and co-workers report of the death of a 15 year male after being stung by a Hemiscorpius acanthocercus Monod & Lourenço, 2005. This is the first documented case involving serious scorpionism in this species, even though it has been assumed that the species in this genus may all be dangerous.

What makes the Hemiscorpius sting so special is that there is no pain or special symptoms involved short after the sting. In the present case, the patient did not seek medical help until 12 days after the envenomation and then he had developed severe complications. Other studies also reports that deaths due to Hemiscorpius stings are connected with delayed medical care due to none or mild symptoms in the days following the sting.

Hemiscorpius occurs throughout Asia (Iran, Iraq, Oman, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Yemen, and the United Arab Emirates) and Africa (Eritrea, Somalia, and Egypt) and it is clear that genus may be a public health risk in some areas.

Abstract:
Scorpion stings are significant causes of death in the western and southern regions of Iran. To date, reports have indicated that the H. lepturus species is the main cause of mortality due to scorpion stings. One of the species that belongs to this genus is Hemiscorpius acanthocercus (H. acanthocercus). This scorpion's venom is cytotoxic, and it causes pathological changes in the blood and can cause severe damage to the kidneys. The pain of Hemiscorpius’ sting is mild and asymptomatic in the early hours. Delays in the treatment of these victims can cause hemolysis, hematuria, kidney failure, and even death. In this paper, we report the first known death due to an H. acanthocercus’ sting in Iran.

Reference:
Shahi M, Rafinejad J, Az-Khosravi L, Moosavy SH. First report of death due to Hemiscorpius acanthocercus envenomation in Iran: Case report. Electronic physician. 2015 Sep;7(5):1234-8. [Open Access]

Scorpionism in Iran

Previously this year two papers on scorpionism in Iran have been published. The most medical important species are Hemiscorpius lepturus (Peters, 1862) (Hemiscorpiidae) and Androctonus crassicauda (Oliver, 1807) (Buthidae), and serious cases of scorpion envenomation including deaths are reported.

Abstract:
Paper 1:
Background: Scorpion sting is a major health problem in Iran. The aim of current study was to measure the incidence rates of scorpion stings, mortality, recovery, and affected age groups. The results of treatment with and without anti venom also were considered in the entire country during 2009.
Methods: All the data were collected from emergency section of different hospitals and then were analyzed by related software. The responsibility of such data collection and surveillance is related to the Department of Violence and Injury, Ministry of Health and Medical Education of Iran.
Results: A total incidence of 59.5/100000 was found for the 12-month period. During the study period the most and the least cases were reported from Khuzestan and Mazandaran Provinces with incidence of 541 and 0 per 100000 respectively. Totally 40220 anti venom vials were used, i.e., the ratio of 91 vial/ 100 affected cases. The stings occur mainly in rural areas (57.7%). Young people with the age group of 15–24 years old were the most victims of stings. The mortality and recovery rates of cases who had received anti venom less than 6 h of stings were calculated as 0.01% and 99.9% respectively.
Conclusion: The high incidence of scorpion stings in Iran especially in Khuzestan suggests the necessity of preventive programmes for decreasing the incidence. Such programmes could start by community educating in the high prevalent areas. In addition prompt and local treatment is particularly important for infants and pre-school children.

Paper 2:
Scorpionism is a major health problem in Khuzestan, included Ramhormoz, south-west of Iran. This descriptive retrospective survey was conducted to give us basic information about scorpionism in this city during 2006-2010. During 2006-2010, a total of 20902 scorpion-stung patients referred to the Rmhormoz health centers. The frequencies of entomo epidemiological and medical parameters were recorded converted to the percentage rank. The results of this study showed that the preventing ways of scorpion stings should be educated among the residents and antivenin of scorpions provided in the health centers of Ramhormoz.

References:
Paper 1:
Rafizadeh S, Rafinejad J, Rassi Y. Epidemiology of Scorpionism in Iran during 2009. Journal of arthropod-borne diseases. 2013;7(1):66-70. [Subscription required for full text]

Paper 2:
Karami K, Vazirianzadeh B, Mashhadi E, Hossienzadeh M, Moravvej SA. A five year epidemiologic study on scorpion stings in Ramhormoz, South-West of Iran. Pakistan Journal of Zoology. 2013;45(2):469-74.

A new Hemiscorpius from Southwestern Iran

Aysergül Karatas and Muhammed Gharkheloo have described a new species in the genus Hemiscorpius Peters, 1861 (Hemiscorpiidae) from Southwestern Iran.

Hemiscorpius kashkayi Karatas & Gharkheloo, 2013

This is the sixth species in this genus reported from Iran. Knowledge on the taxonomy of this genus is very important as it has high medical importance and it is possible that other species than the well known Hemiscorpius lepturus may cause serious morbidity in humans.

Abstract:
A new Hemiscorpius species, H. kashkayi sp. nov., is described from the Khuzestan and Ahwaz region in southwestern Iran. H. kashkayi is related to H. persicus Birula, 1903, known from Baluchestan in eastern Iran, which does not show sexual dimorphism between males and females, like H. kashkayi. These 2 species differ from all other Iranian Hemiscorpiidae species in having no sexual dimorphism. H. kashkayi is distinguished from H. persicus by its relatively short and well-developed stout metasoma and pedipalp segments, less well-developed patellar process, and carapacial and mesosomal carination.

Reference:
Karatas A, Gharkheloo MM. A new Hemiscorpius Peters, 1861 (Scorpiones: Hemiscorpiidae) from southwestern Iran. Turkish Journal of Arachnology. 2013;37:1-9. [Free full text]

Thanks to Gerard Dupre for sending me this paper!

Family Hemiscorpiidae

Scorpionism in Iran - An updated review

Hemiscorpius lepturus is the most dangerous scorpion in Iran. Male (left) and female (top). Photos Morteza Johari (C)

 There have been several published papers on scorpions of medical importance in Iran and it is well known that Hemiscorpius lepturus Peters, 1861 and Androctonus crassicauda (Oliver, 1807) are the most dangerous species causing both deaths and serious mortality, but literature on other species have been scarce and7or anecdotal.

Rouhullah Dehghani and Behrooz Fathi have now published an updated review on Iranian scorpionism discussing current knowledge on the medical importance of all relevant Iranian species. The paper has also information on the distribution of mentioned species and sting treatment. A few color pictures illustrate how bad H. lepturus envenomations can get in children.

It should be noticed that this paper report of of death of a 10 year old boy attributed to Orthochirus scrobiculosus (Grube, 1873). As far as I know, this is the first published case of serious envenomations in this genus, which usually is considered docile and harmless. It is tempting to ask if it is possible that the scorpions involved has not been correctly identified (maybe an juvenile A. crassicauda was involved), but until the medical status of this genus has been properly investigated it is important to be careful with scorpions belonging to Orthochirus.

Abstract:
Among Middle Eastern countries, at least 52 species of scorpions, especially dangerous types, have been reported in Iran. This is more than any other country in the region. In addition, in Iran the recorded scorpion stings from 2001 to 2009 were more than 42,500 per year, of which, approximately 19.5 deaths have been reported each year, mostly in spring and summer. About 10 species are responsible for the reported envenoming which belong to the Buthidae family apart from Hemiscorpius lepturus which is a Hemiscorpiidae. The Buthidae family includes: Androctonus crassicauda, Mesobuthus eupeus, Odontobuthus doriae, Hottentotta saulcyi, Hottentotta schach, Compsobuthus matthiesseni, Orthochirus scrobiculosus, Apistobuthus pterygocercus and Olivierus caucasicus. A. crassicauda and H. lepturus are usually cited as the most dangerous species among Iranian scorpions. This article focuses on the main Iranian scorpions and their geographical distribution, especially those which are medically important and considered to be the more dangerous to human, and also attempts to demonstrate an accurate magnitude of scorpion stings in Iran.

Reference:
Dehghani R, Fathi B. Scorpion sting in Iran: A review. Toxicon. 2012;60(5):919-33. [Subscription required for full text]

A new species of Hemiscorpius from Egypt

Wilson Lourenco has recently published a paper describing a new species of Hemiscorpius Peters, 1861 (Hemiscorpiidae) from Egypt. This is the first record of Hemiscorpius in Egypt.

Hemiscorpius egyptiensis Lourenco, 2011

Previously, H. somalicus Lourenco, 2o11 and H. novaki Kovarik & Mazuch, 2011 are also described from Africa. Nothing is known about the African species' venom potency and if they are of medical importance like H. lepturus Peters, 1861 in Iran.

Abstract:
A new species, Hemiscorpius egyptiensis sp. n., is described from the Nubia region in the Upper Nile, Egypt. This is the first record of the genus Hemiscorpius Peters for this country. The total number of species in the genus Hemiscorpius is now raised to 14.

Reference:
Lourenco WR. More about the African species of Hemiscorpius Peters, 1861 (Scorpiones: Hemiscorpiidae), and a description of a new species from Egypt. Boletin de la SEA. 2011(49):23-6.

Thanks to professor Lourenco for sending me this paper!

Family Hemiscorpiidae

Hemiscorpius lepturus sting - a case report

Almost all dangerous scorpions (and all species in the family Buthidae) have neurotoxic venom. Hemiscorpius lepturus Peters, 1861 (Hemiscorpiidae) from Iran and Iraq has a venom composition differing significantly from the species of medical importance in Buthidae (by having a cytotoxic venom). And this species is at least as dangerous as the most potent species in Buthidae, causing renal failure, severe pulmonary hemorrhage and other dangerous conditions in many patients.

Eshan Valavi and co-workers have now published a case report of a Hemiscorpius lepturus sting from Iran describing both symptoms and why the venom causes these potential life threatening symptoms.

Abstract:
Hemiscorpius lepturus is a lethal scorpion with potentially cytotoxic venom. Various degrees of local and systemic toxicity have been observed after its envenomation ranging from local erythema to disseminated intravascular coagulation, renal failure and severe pulmonary hemorrhage. In this case report, we report on a seven-year-old patient who developed the hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS) after being stung by the scorpion H. lepturus. This condition is characterized by microangiopathic hemolytic anemia, thrombocytopenia, increased serum levels of lactate dehydrogenase and uremia. We evaluated the causes of HUS and found that the levels of C3, C4, CH50 and H factors were normal, but the activity of Von Willebrand factor cleaving protease was decreased (less than 5% of the normal activity). The patient improved after administering therapy with plasma exchange.

Reference:
Valavi E, Ansari MJ, Hoseini S. ADAMTS-13 deficiency following Hemiscorpius lepturus scorpion sting. Saudi J Kidney Dis Transpl. 2011 Jul-Aug;22(4):792-5. [free fulltext]

A new species of Hemiscorpius from Somaliland (Somalia)

Kovarik & Mazuch have published a paper presenting a new species of Hemiscorpius Peters, 1861 (Hemiscorpiidae) from Somaliland (Somalia):

Hemiscorpius novaki Kovarik & Mazuch, 2011

Abstract:
Hemiscorpius novaki sp. n. from Somaliland is described and compared with other African species of the genus. The new species is characterized chiefly by the total length of 40–46 mm; yellow to yellowish-brown color with pedipalp fingers reddish brown to black, darker than the chela; slightly longer metasoma in the male than in the female. These characters distinguish H. novaki sp. n. from H. somalicus Lourenço, 2011. The third African species of the genus, H. tellinii Borelli, 1904, is known only from the female holotype, which differs from females of H. novaki sp. n. in having much less pronounced granulation of dorsal carinae on the first through fourth metasomal segments and in shape of the genital operculum.

Reference:
Kovarik F, Mazuch T. Hemiscorpius novaki sp. n. from Somaliland (Scorpiones: Hemiscorpiidae). Euscorpius. 2011(126):1-9. [Free fulltext]

Thanks to Tomas Mazuch for sending me the paper!

Family Hemiscorpiidae

A new species of Hemiscorpius from Somalia

The medical important genus Hemiscorpius Peters, 1861 (Hemiscorpiidae) is mostly known (and infamous) from the Middle East, but this genus is also represented in East Africa. Wilson Lourenco has now described a new species in the genus from Somalia.

Hemiscorpius somalicus Lourenco, 2011

Abstract:
New considerations are proposed about the species of Hemiscorpius Peters, 1861 reported from East Africa. Hemiscorpius tellinii Borelli, 1904 is accepted as a valid species, distinct from Hemiscorpius socotranus Pocock, 1899. This last species most certainly represents an endemic element to the Island of Socotra and its presence in Somalia requires further investigation. One new species, Hemiscorpius somalicus sp. n., is described from the region of Meleden in northeast Somalia. The total number of species in the genus Hemiscorpius is now raised to 12.

Reference:
Lourenco WR. The genus Hemiscorpius Peters, 1861 (Scorpiones: Hemiscorpiidae) in East Africa, and description of a new species from Somalia. Entomol Mitt Zool Mus Hamburg. 2011;15(185):275-85.

Thanks to Professor Lourenco for sending me this paper!

Family Hemiscorpiidae

Biochemical analysis of Hemiscorpius lepturus venom

Hemiscorpius lepturus Peters, 1861 (Hemiscorpiidae) is a highly cytotoxic scorpions that has the highest mortality rate among scorpions in Iran. Causing different symptoms than most other scorpions, knowledge about the biochemistry and toxicology of the Hemiscorpius venom is important.

Ramin Seyedian and co-workers have now published an enzymatic analysis of Hemiscorpius lepturus venom that increase the knowledge of the venom composition and how the venom works on the human body. This knowledge is important in the development of better treatment of the sting victims of this dangerous species.

Abstract:
Hemiscorpius lepturus envenomation exhibits various pathological changes in the affected tissues, including skin, blood cells, cardiovascular and central nervous systems. The enzymatic activity and protein component of the venom have not been described previously. In the present study, the electrophoretic profile of H. lepturus venom was determined by SDS-PAGE (12 and 15%), resulting in major protein bands at 3.5–5, 30–35 and 50–60 kDa. The enzymatic activities of the venomwas, for the first time, investigated using various zymography techniques, which showed the gelatinolytic, caseinolytic, and hyaluronidase activities mainly at around 50–60 kDa, 30–40 kDa, and 40–50 kDa, respectively. Among these, the proteolytic activities was almost completely disappeared in the presence of a matrix metalloproteinase inhibitor, 1, 10-phenanthroline. Antigen-antibody interactions between the venom and its Iranian antivenin was observed by Western blotting, and it showed several antigenic proteins in the range of 30–160 kDa. This strong antigen– antibody reaction was also demonstrated through an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The gelatinase activity of the venom was suppressed by Razi institute polyvalent antivenin, suggesting the inhibitory effect of the antivenin against H. lepturus venom protease activities. Prudently, more extensive clinical studies are necessary for validation of its use in envenomed patients.

Reference:
Seyedian R, Pipelzadeh MH, Jalali A, Kim E, Lee H, Kang C, et al. Enzymatic analysis of Hemiscorpius lepturus scorpion venom using zymography and venom-specific antivenin. Toxicon. 2010 Sep 15;56(4):521-5. [Subscription required for fulltext]

Thanks to Ramin Seyedian for sending me this paper!