Photo By ethan-k , used under CC-BY-NC-4.0 /Cropped and compressed from original
Stripe-tailed scorpion
Paravaejovis spinigerus
A species of Paravaejovis, Also known as Devil scorpion, Stripetail scorpion, Hoffmannius spinigerus
The arachnid stripe-tailed scorpion is known for its robust exoskeleton, which is a characteristic defense mechanism, shielding it from predators and harsh environmental conditions. Preferring desert and scrubland habitats, it navigates nocturnally to avoid the intense heat of day, employing its unique sensory hairs to detect vibrational cues from prey or threats. Its diet primarily consists of insects, which it skillfully captures using its pedipalps before delivering a paralyzing sting, a testament to its evolved predatory adaptations.
Toxic to Humans
Toxic to Animals
Human Stinging
General Info About Stripe-tailed scorpion
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Attributes of Stripe-tailed scorpion
Habitat
Found in the Sonoran desert (Arizona, New Mexico and parts of California), commonly found under rocks and surface objects, such as sleeping bags or shoes, or on sandy soils in a variety of habitats, from desert floor to rocky hillsides. It seeks the most humid areas it can find.
Adult Food Sources
Insects, spiders, crickets, smaller scorpions, other arthropods
Larva Food Source
Small insects, mites, small arthropods, springtails, weak or injured prey
Biting/stinging
Not reported
Allergy-causing
Not reported
Defensive attack
The Stripe-tailed scorpion has special defensive behaviors that can trigger an allergic reaction. If there are serious reactions, seek IMMEDIATE medical attention.
Venomous
The Stripe-tailed scorpion can induce toxic reactions varying in severity. Nevertheless, these toxins primarily target their prey and predators and are usually not fatal to humans.
Non-poisonous
Not reported
Borer
Not reported
Pollinator
Not reported
Pest-Eating Predatory
Not reported
Phytophagous
Not reported
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Adult Habitat of Stripe-tailed scorpion
Deserts and Arid Regions
How and Where Can You Find Stripe-tailed scorpion at Different Life Stages
Juvenile To find juvenile stripe-tailed scorpion, search under rocks, wood, or other debris in arid environments during the evening when they are more active. Sub-adult stripe-tailed scorpion can be found by looking in crevices of rocks or burrows close to the surface in desert regions at night, as they start to explore further but maintain proximity to their established habitats.
Adult Adult stripe-tailed scorpion tend to be more reclusive and may burrow deeper into the ground. Locate them by identifying tell-tale signs of their burrows, or using a UV light at night when their exoskeletons fluoresce, making them easier to spot.
Are Stripe-tailed scorpion harmful?
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Are Stripe-tailed scorpion harmful to humans?
The scorpion (Devil scorpions) of this genus will not cause more pain than the stings of ants and bees unless the patient has an allergic reaction to the venom. After being stung by them, the wound will not even be red, swollen, and only has the tingling and burning sensation. These discomforts do not require special treatment and usually subside automatically after 30 minutes.
Harmful Effects of Stripe-tailed scorpion
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Toxic to Humans
Toxic to Animals
Human Stinging
Toxic to Humans
Stripe-tailed scorpion's sting contains neurotoxins that can impact human health, though it typically poses low risk. Juveniles and adults use their sting primarily for defense and hunting prey. Their neurotoxins can cause immediate pain, swelling, and local discomfort, rarely leading to severe complications in humans. Effects are usually mild and self-limiting.
Toxic to Animals
Stripe-tailed scorpion, a type of Coleoptera, employs its toxin mainly as a defense mechanism. This organism releases poison through its skin at the joints, which can vary in impact from mild to severe. Adults are particularly toxic. When ingested by animals, such as humans or dogs, it can cause a range of adverse reactions. Some may experience discomfort, while others could exhibit more serious symptoms, reinforcing the need for caution around such organisms.
Does the Stripe-tailed scorpion sting humans?
Stripe-tailed scorpion usually stings humans in self-defense, often when humans inadvertently come into contact with them. Stings can cause pain and swelling, but are not generally severe. Males and females possess stingers, but there's no distinct gender difference in stinging capabilities. Stinging is costly for stripe-tailed scorpion as it depletes venom reserves that could deter predators or immobilize prey.