The Details of the Devil Scorpion
The devil scorpion, or stripe-tailed scorpion (Paravaejovis spinigerus) is a species of scorpion native to the Sonoran Desert in North America. It is found in a variety of habitats, including sandy soil and rocky canyons, and particularly prefers to hide under logs or in tight crevices. They may also be found in residential areas, particularly in dark cool areas such as basements or sheds.
Stripe-tailed scorpions can reproduce sexually or asexually. When males encounter females, they court by dancing around each other; but if the male dances longer than the female, she will attack and eat him. If females go for a long period without encountering a male mate, her eggs will mature without fertilization and all her offspring will be female clones of herself. In either case, the female carries embryos for 3-8 months and gives birth to a live clutch of up to 100 babies. If the mother chooses to care for them, instead of eating them, they will stay on her back for an additional 2-3 weeks before dispersing.
Devil scorpions are quite large, with adults reaching 6-7 cm (2.3-2.7 in) in length and weighing up to 9.5 g (0.3 oz). Females are differentiated from males by their fatter "swollen" abdomen. Adults have a brown or tan head, arms, and tail and a black body with thin brown stripes.
Like most scorpions, P. spinigerus is a carnivore. They predate on insects and smaller scorpions, which they hunt almost exclusively at night. They themselves are prey for a variety of predators including snakes, spiders, centipedes, lizards, birds, and larger scorpions. They are able to defend themselves with the venomous sting in their tail, although the venom is not significantly harmful to humans.
Conservation status: The devil scorpion has not been rated by the IUCN. Due to their large range, they are considered relatively stable, and they are moderately adapted to survive in urban areas.
Photos
Matt Felperin
Andrew Meeds
Bill Hubick
