Parabuthus transvaalicus (Thick-tail Spitting Scorpion) 3i

Parabuthus transvaalicus is one of the largest members of the buthid family, and can be up to 15 cm long (8.5- 15 cm). This species is blackish/brown (some color variations are possible), with reddish brown pincers. Pedipalps and legs are lighter in color. This species is dangerous, and should only be kept by researchers and experienced keepers.

Distribution:
Africa (Botswana, Mozambique, South Africa, Zimbabwe, Namib Desert).

Habitat:
Hot and dry deserts and scrublands, but also in semi-arid regions. This species hide in burrows, under stones, logs etc.

Venom:
Parabuthus transvaalicus is a dangerous medically significant scorpion, which can both sting and spray its kurtoxin venom over one meter. In a study in Zimbabwe, 63 % of the stings of this species resulted in intense pain only. 27 % of the stings resulted in minor systematic envenomation (hypersalivation, sweating and subjective neurological complaints). Severe scorpionism was seen in 10 % of the cases (neuromuscular symptoms with significant parasympathetic nervous system and cardiac involvement). Fatality rate was 0.3 % with deaths in children below 10 years and adults above 50 years.