Morphometry indices of the Scorpio maurus (Scorpionida: Scorpionidae), from Fars Province, southern Iran

Background: The class of Arachnida includes several orders such as Aranea, Solpugida, Acarina and Scorpionida. Scorpions are one of the most important venomous arthropod groups in Iran. Morphometry indices can be used to identify scorpions. Scorpio maurus is classified in the Scorpionidae family.Objectives: This study attempted to examine morphometric indices of S. maurus.Materials and Methods: This study was conducted in Fars Province. Scorpions were collected from four counties, Larestan, Mohr, Zarindasht and Gerash. The most important morphometric indices included whole body length, pedipalp length, length and width of carapace, leg segments, abdomen and tail egments, as well as the size of poison gland. Pectins number and length were scored using a Collis-Vernier caliper scale Results: In this study, one male and 15 female specimens of S. maurus were measured. Statistical analysis showed significant differences between males and females indices. Indices were measured and in all female indices were greater than male except pectines length which was in males (4.86±0) whereas in females (4.70±0.41) and pectines number in males (14.00±0) and females (12.73±0.70).Conclusion: In S. maurus whole body length, pedipalp length, number and length of pectines were selected as taxonomic indices.

Keywords:

Scorpions , Morphometric indices , Fars