Scorpion species in trackless areas of Aligudarz and Sepiddasht Counties in Luristan Province in 2013

Studies of biology and ecology of scorpions in Iran faces with lots of limitations. These studies have to be started with identifying habitats and species of scorpions in a certain region of the country and should be completed with investigation of their biologic and ecologic characteristics. This study aims at identification and characterization of scorpions species in trackless areas of Luristan.

During this descriptive study in 21 trackless nomads areas of Aligudarz and Sepiddasht the spots were sampled. Temperature, humidity and altitude of the sampling places were recorded. In each place, two hours before sunset and within the first hours of night the scorpions were captured with aid of UV flashlight and infra red glasses.

A total of 659 scorpions were captured in two areas located in Aligudars and Sepiddasht all of which belonged to Hemiscorpidae and Butidae families. From Hemiscorpidae family: Hemiscorpius leptorus and from family Butidae: Buthotus saulcyi, Mesobuthus eupus, Androctonus crassicauda, Orthochirus iranus, Buthacus macrocentrus species were diagnosed.

Butidae family with 5 species had significant diversity and distribution in the study area. B. saulcyi was the most frequent in the areas. H. leptorus in Sepiddasht made up over 32 percent of the scorpions and it is a hazardous scorpion species. Necessary warning should be given to the residents of the area.