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Scorpions
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Scorpions hide during the day and become active at night. This behavior helps them manage their temperature and water balance which is important for survival in dry climates. They mainly eat small inscets, spiders, centipedes, earthworms and other scorpions. Once a scorpion captures its prey, it uses its large pincers to crush and draw it towards its mouth so it can ingest the prey's body juices.
Characteristics
- Long slender body with 5 segmented tail
- Tail ends in abuilb-like poison gland or stinger
- Four pairs of legs with two large pincer-bearing arms in front
- A comb-like structure (pectines) is used to identify surface textures and to detect prey
- The pectines is located between the last pair of legs
Scorpion Sting
In Texas, scorpion stings produce only a moderate reaction in most people, because these scorpion's poison has little effect on the nervous system. The severity of a sting depends upon the individual scorpion and the victim's reaction to its venom. An individual stung by a scorpion should be watched closely for any adverse reactions. Applying an ice pack th the affected area will relieve some pain. The victim should seek immediate medical attention if swelling and or pain persists or if breathing difficulties occur