Scorpion (Opistopthalmus karrooensis) on a rock

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Scorpion (Opistopthalmus karrooensis) on a rock

Scorpion (Opistopthalmus karrooensis) on a rock. This scorpion is also known as the shiny burrowing scorpion, as it digs and shelters in burrows that can be up to a metre deep and a metre and a half long. It is carnivorous, but not an active hunter, waiting until prey is nearby before thrusting out its large claws or the sting on its tail. Small prey, such as other invertebrates, are crushed to death with the pincers, while larger prey, such as small mammals, are paralysed with venom. The scorpion is able to detect prey and predators through vibrations in the ground. When threatened it makes a hissing sound by rubbing its claws together. Photographed in Uniondale, South Africa

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Media ID 6465459

© PETER CHADWICK/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY

Arthropod Burrow Carnivore Chelae Chelicerae Claw Claws Pincer Pincers Poison Poisonous Sting Stinger Venom Venomous

EDITORS COMMENTS
This print captures the mesmerizing beauty of a Scorpion (Opistopthalmus karrooensis) perched on a rock. Commonly known as the shiny burrowing scorpion, this arthropod species is renowned for its impressive digging skills and ability to create extensive burrows reaching up to one meter deep and one and a half meters long. Despite being carnivorous, this scorpion does not actively hunt its prey. Instead, it patiently waits until potential victims come within striking distance before swiftly extending its large claws or venomous tail sting. While smaller invertebrates are crushed with its powerful pincers, larger prey such as small mammals are paralyzed by the potent venom injected through their stingers. Remarkably attuned to its surroundings, this scorpion can detect both prey and predators through vibrations transmitted via the ground. When threatened, it emits an eerie hissing sound by rubbing its formidable claws together—a warning sign that should not be taken lightly. Photographed against the picturesque backdrop of Uniondale in South Africa, this image showcases nature's intricate wonders. It serves as a reminder of how diverse our planet's fauna truly is while highlighting the fascinating adaptations these creatures have developed for survival. This stunning photograph from Science Photo Library allows us to appreciate the delicate balance between predator and prey in our natural world—an awe-inspiring testament to biology's complexity and evolution's ingenuity.

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