Chihuahuanus coahuilae
(Williams, 1968)
Lesser Stripetail Scorpion
Chihuahuanus coahuilae, the Lesser Stripetail , is a small scorpion measuring 35–55 mm. It occurs in the Chihuahuan Desert region of Mexico and the southwestern United States. The species was originally described as Vaejovis coahuilae in 1968 and later transferred to the Chihuahuanus. It is a member of the Vaejovidae, one of the most diverse scorpion families in North America.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Chihuahuanus coahuilae: /kʰiːˈwɑːwænəs koʊˈuːɪˌleɪ/
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Identification
Distinguished from similar vaejovid scorpions by the combination of small size (35–55 mm), striped metasoma, and slender . The specific epithet 'coahuilae' refers to the Mexican state of Coahuila, part of its core range. Separation from Chihuahuanus crassimanus and other Chihuahuanus requires examination of pedipalp and metasomal segment proportions, plus male genital structure.
Habitat
Arid and semi-arid environments of the Chihuahuan Desert, including rocky slopes, desert scrub, and grassland . Often found under stones or in soil cracks.
Distribution
Chihuahuan Desert region of northern Mexico (Coahuila, Nuevo León, and adjacent states) and southwestern United States (trans-Pecos Texas, southern New Mexico)
Behavior
; shelters under surface objects during daylight hours. Like other vaejovids, likely an ambush that remains motionless at burrow entrances or in rock crevices.
Ecological Role
of small arthropods in desert ; serves as prey for larger arthropods, reptiles, birds, and small mammals.
Human Relevance
Venom to humans is not well documented; given its size, envenomation is likely painful but not life-threatening. Encounters occur during activities or when rocks are overturned.
Similar Taxa
- Chihuahuanus crassimanusOverlapping range and similar size; distinguished by more robust and different metasomal proportions
- Paravaejovis spinigerusSympatric in parts of range; has more robust body form and different tail structure
More Details
Taxonomic History
Originally described by Williams (1968) as Vaejovis coahuilae. Transferred to Chihuahuanus when that was erected to accommodate vaejovid scorpions of the Chihuahuan Desert region.
Etymology
Specific epithet refers to Coahuila, Mexico, where were collected.