Paruroctonus silvestrii
(Borelli, 1909)
California common scorpion, stripe-tailed scorpion
Paruroctonus silvestrii is a small in the Vaejovidae, native to the coastal regions of California and Baja California. It is commonly known as the California common scorpion or stripe-tailed scorpion. The inhabits dry areas where it constructs and occupies burrows. It is distinguished by four longitudinal brown lines on the surface of its tail, which gives rise to its 'stripe-tailed' .
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Paruroctonus silvestrii: /pɑːruːˈrɔktonuːs sɪlˈvɛstriiː/
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Identification
The four longitudinal brown stripes on the surface of the tail are diagnostic and give the its 'stripe-tailed' . The combination of small size (<45 mm), slender , and mottled dark gray-brown coloration helps distinguish it from other Paruroctonus species in the region. The ventral tail stripes are particularly useful for field identification when the can be observed from below.
Images
Appearance
typically measure less than 45 mm in length. The body is generally mottled dark gray-brown in coloration. The (pincers) are relatively slender and narrow compared to some other . The most distinctive feature is the presence of four longitudinal brown stripes on the (underside) surface of the metasoma (tail).
Habitat
Dry, arid environments where the constructs and inhabits burrows. Found in coastal regions with suitable substrate for burrowing.
Distribution
Native to the coastal region of the Californias, including coastal California and Baja California. GBIF records indicate presence in Middle America and North America.
Behavior
Creates and dwells in burrows. activity pattern typical of scorpions, though specific behavioral details for this are not well documented.
Ecological Role
Predatory in arid coastal . Specific ecological interactions have not been documented.
Human Relevance
'California common ' suggests frequent encounters in its native range. Venom to humans is not documented in available sources. Not known to be of medical significance.
Similar Taxa
- Paruroctonus sodaAnother small Paruroctonus from California, but P. soda is restricted to alkali playa (Soda Lake) and lacks the distinctive tail stripes of P. silvestrii.
- Paruroctonus conclususSimilar in size and , but P. conclusus is a playa from Koehn Lake with extremely restricted range and does not possess the four tail stripes.
More Details
Taxonomic history
Originally described as Vaejovis silvestrii by Borelli in 1909, later transferred to the Paruroctonus.
iNaturalist observations
The has over 2,600 observations on iNaturalist, indicating it is frequently encountered and photographed by naturalists in its native range.