SCORPIONS in URBAN AREAS in IRAN, and RECENT PROGRESS of LABORATORY RESEARCH (SCORPIONIDA: SCORPIONIDAE, BUTHIDAE)

Abstract:
Scorpions are common in urban and rural areas of Iran. The Iranian species are classified in Buthidae and Scorpionidae; there are 16 genera and 25 species, and a species in the family Diplocentridae occurs on Kish Island. The most common species are: Mesobuthus eupeus, Odontobuthus doriae, Scorpio maurus, and Hemiscorpius lepturus. Laboratory rearing methods for scorpions have been improved with the use of a 3 cm by 10 cm cardboard tunnel. The venom of Hemiscorpius lepturus is obtained from amputated telsons, which are dried and ground to obtain the venom. Nocturnal activity and movement of scorpions is influenced by a variety of factors, including biological rhythms, humidity, and temperature. The night promenade of Odontobuthus doriae includes considerable time searching for food and shelter.