Introduction:
Scorpions are ancient arachnids with a unique behavior and adaptation that makes them fascinating. The scorpion is one of the most interesting creatures in the animal kingdom, given the many characteristics and habits that make it unique. From venomous stingers to their eight legs, here are .
Fact 1: Scorpions are an Ancient Species
Scorpions have been around for almost 430 million years. This has earned them the moniker of ‘living fossils’. As such, they have been around much longer than their arachnid relatives like spiders and ticks. As they have evolved, scorpions have been able to adapt to a variety of ecosystems from the desert, to the forest, and even in your garden.
Fact 2: Scorpions are Venomous Arachnids
Most scorpions have venom and they use it to ward off predators as well as to paralyze their prey. The venom is not usually dangerous to humans, but the sting of a scorpion can be painful. The most venomous species in the world is the Florida bark scorpion.
Fact 3: Scorpions Have Eight Legs and Two Claws
Scorpions have eight legs, the same as spiders. They also have two claws, called pedipalps, which they use to grab and hold their prey. This pair of specialized limbs also plays a role in mating and in the creation and transfer of offspring.
Fact 4: Scorpions have Eyes on Their Back
Scorpions have two to five small eyes on the back of their head. Although these eyes can’t see very clearly, they can detect the amount of light and movement. This allows them to be aware of their surroundings and help them find prey at night.
Fact 5: Scorpions Glow in the Dark
Scorpions have the ability to luminesce when exposed to ultraviolet light. This phenomenon, known as fluorescence, may be used as a form of communication between scorpions of different species or to attract prey.
Fact 6: Scorpions have Sensitive Feelers
Scorpions have two sensitive feelers known as the pectines. These are located close to their mouthparts and they are used to smell and taste the environment. They also help the scorpion balance and detect the placement of objects.
Fact 7: Scorpions Have the Ability to Survive Without Food and Water for Long Periods of Time
Scorpions are well-known for being able to survive without food or water for prolonged periods of time. They can go for months or even years without sustenance and will only when they need to. When deprived of food or water, the scorpion will go into a state of aestivation where they slow down their metabolism in order to survive.
Fact 8: Scorpions Molt to Grow into New Exoskeletons
Scorpions molt in order to grow. During this process, they shed their outer exoskeleton and grow a new one that is larger. They do this several times throughout their lifetime and take time to rest and eat after each molt.
Fact 9: Scorpions Are Nocturnal Creatures
Most scorpions are nocturnal which means that they are most active at night. This is likely because they need to avoid the sun’s dangerous UV rays. During the day they hide in burrows to keep cool, and come out to hunt for prey at night.
Fact 10: Female Scorpions Carry their Babies until Maturity
When female scorpions give birth they carry the offspring around on their back for weeks, until they molt for the last time. During this time they stay close to the mother and eventually fall off her back when they reach maturity.
Fact 11: Scorpions are Found Worldwide
Scorpions are found in all continents except Antarctica. They can be found in different habitats depending on species, from the desert, to the rainforest and even underground.
Fact 12: Scorpions Have a Variety of Natural Predators
Scorpions have a number of natural predators in the wild, such as foxes, raccoons, owls, and shrews. In some areas, humans also hunt and catch scorpions to use them in traditional medicine.
Fact 13: Scorpions Have an Average Lifespan of 2-3 Years
The lifespan of a scorpion can vary depending on the species, but on average they live for two to three years. The oldest recorded scorpion lived for 25 years in captivity.
Fact 14: Scorpions Have Different Stings Depending on Species
Scorpions possess a type of venomous sting that differs depending on their species. While most scorpions are venomous, they are not all deadly to humans; in most cases, stings are painful but not deadly.
Fact 15: Scorpions are an Important Source of Medical Research
Scorpions have become a major source of research in the medical field. Some species of scorpion venom have been studied for use in medicines as an anti-cancer agent and many drugs have already been created from scorpion venom.
Scorpions are fascinating creatures and possess some unique adaptations that make it quite captivating. From their behavior to their ability to survive without food, these ancient arachnids have been around for almost 430 million years and will undoubtedly continue to interest us as we explore more of these amazing creatures.
