Anuroctonus

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Anuroctonus: /ˌænjuˈrɒktənəs/

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Summary

Anuroctonus pococki, the California swollen-stinger scorpion, is a large, mildly venomous scorpion native to Southern California and Baja California. Recognizable by their swollen stingers and black-tipped claws, they are nocturnal ambush predators that dig substantial burrows for hunting.

Physical Characteristics

Large scorpion measuring up to 65 mm (2.6 in) with very large, black-tipped claws and a swollen region just before the stinger on their telsons, especially prominent in mature males.

Identification Tips

Look for the swollen stinger before the telson and large black-tipped claws; they are larger in size compared to other local scorpions.

Habitat

Coast ranges of Southern California and Baja California, living in burrows dug by females up to 60 cm deep.

Distribution

Native to Southern California and Baja California in North America; the only scorpion from the genus Anuroctonus found in Baja California.

Diet

Ambush predator, primarily preying on insects that wander near their burrows.

Life Cycle

Information on the specific life cycle is not provided; generally, scorpions have a life cycle involving egg, juvenile, and adult stages.

Reproduction

Females dig deeper burrows, while males create shallower burrows; mating behavior is typical for scorpions.

Ecosystem Role

Predators of insects, helping to control insect populations in their environment.

Cultural Significance

The species may hold significance in studies of arachnology and local ecology, due to its unique adaptations.

Health Concerns

Stings are painful but typically non-serious, resolving after 24 hours; possible serious health risks for very young or old individuals; professional medical attention is advised for scorpion stings.

Similar Taxa

• Arizona bark scorpion

Misconceptions

Stings may cause unnecessary alarm as they are usually non-serious; people may mistakenly believe all scorpions are highly venomous.

Tags

• scorpion
• Anuroctonus
• Arachnida
• venomous
• predator