| Arizona Bark Scorpion |
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Information AboutArizona Bark Scorpion |
| CATEGORIES ABOUT ARIZONA BARK SCORPION | |
| scorpions | |
| fauna of southwestern united states | |
The Arizona bark scorpion (''Centruroides exilicauda'', previously known as ''Centruroides sculpturatus''), is a small (7 cm) light brown Scorpion common to the Southwest United States . It is Venomous , and its sting has been known to lethal, particularly for small children. An Antivenom was developed for this species, and produced in quantities sufficient to treat individuals within the state of Arizona . Production of this antivenom has since ceased, and a Mexican antivenin is being tested in its place. Fatalities are rare, with two recorded in the state of Arizona since 1968. The bark scorpion is unusual in that it is the only species in the southwest that regularly climbs walls, trees, and other objects with a sufficiently rough surface. It is not capable of climbing glass or smooth plastic, so it may be safely contained in glass vessels without lids. It is one of two species within the United States that is dangerous; the other, far less dangerous, species is '' Centruroides Vittatus ''. Arizona bark scorpions are not true desert species; they prefer Riparian areas, with sufficient moisture and humidity to support insects and other prey species. However, the popularity of irrigated lawns in residential areas has led to an explosion in the number of these animals in some areas. Relatively high humidity seems important in the life cycle of the species in that the female will not give live birth if it is too dry. Care and feeding is similar to that of other scorpions. The Arizona bark scorpion does prefer to hide, and will cling to all but the smoothest of surfaces. It is more active at night, and a diet of crickets and other insects suits them well. Due to the venomous nature of the species, handling is contraindicated. They are not aggressive, and prefer to run or hide when confronted. The sting is very painful, and may cause pain and loss of use of an affected limb. In extreme cases, allergic reactions may cause death. Injury to young children or the elderly may require medical intervention. Individual scorpions may live to 5-6 years, and possibly more. EXTERNAL LINKS
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