Scorpions are predatory arthropod animals of the order Scorpiones within the class Arachnida. They have eight legs and are easily recognised by the pair of grasping pedipalps and the narrow, segmented tail, often carried in a characteristic forward curve over the back, ending with a venomous stinger. Scorpions range in size from 9 mm (Typhlochactas mitchelli) to 20 cm (Hadogenes troglodytes).[1]
The evolutionary history of scorpions goes back the Silurian era 430 million years ago. They have adapted to a wide range of environmental conditions and can now be found on all continents except Antarctica.
Scorpions number about 1750 described species,[2] with 13 extant families recognised to date. Only about 25 of these species are known to have venom capable of killing a human being.[3]:1The taxonomy has undergone changes and is likely to change further, as genetic studies are bringing forth new information.
The evolutionary history of scorpions goes back the Silurian era 430 million years ago. They have adapted to a wide range of environmental conditions and can now be found on all continents except Antarctica.
Scorpions number about 1750 described species,[2] with 13 extant families recognised to date. Only about 25 of these species are known to have venom capable of killing a human being.[3]:1The taxonomy has undergone changes and is likely to change further, as genetic studies are bringing forth new information.
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