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General Information on Scorpions
Scorpions, like all arachnids, have eight legs and, like all arthropods, have a thick exoskeleton. They range in size from less than 1/2 inch to several inches long. They are predatory creatures that feed mostly on insects, though some larger species can kill and eat small mice, birds and lizards. Scorpions are unique among arachnids because they give live birth instead of laying eggs. At least one species of scorpion lives on every continent except Antarctica, though most are found in deserts and warm, tropical areas. Only 25 of the more than 1,000 species of scorpions have venom that is lethal to humans.
Gormar Scorpion Description
The gormar scorpion is a very large species, one of the largest on Earth. It ranges from 4 to 5 inches in length and weighs several ounces. It is solid black with an exceptionally thick exoskeleton and black legs with a slightly reddish tinge. Its pincers are particularly large and very powerful. The gormar scorpion has a large tail and a particularly large stinger. It is venomous.
Gormar Scorpion Habitat and Behaviors
Gormar scorpions live only in Venezuela. They make their homes in the jungles and tropical rainforests of the country. Villagers know of the scorpion's deadly reputation and make every effort to avoid it and remove it from their surroundings. Gormar scorpions, like all scorpions, are nocturnal, meaning they are active at night. During the day, they take shelter in shaded areas and rest for several hours. They will aggressively defend their young and fend off predators. Gormar scorpions will glow under ultraviolet light because of chemicals contained in the exoskeleton, a trait seen in almost all scorpion species.
Gormar Scorpion Lethality
Though only 25 species of scorpions have venom that is lethal to humans, the gormar scorpion belongs to that group that is extremely deadly. The scorpion's venom causes neurotoxic paralysis which leads to difficulty breathing. A single sting can kill an average-sized man in a few minutes. Children and the elderly are at an even higher risk. There is no anti-venom, so a person who has been stung must be treated with vasodilators and analgesics. Gormar scorpion stings on humans are rare because of their nocturnal behavior and limited habitat.