Predation of a Scolopendrid Prey by the Scorpion Tityus pugilator Pocock, 1898, in a Horticultural Landscape of Quito, Ecuador

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Predation of a Scolopendrid Prey by the Scorpion Tityus pugilator Pocock, 1898, in a Horticultural Landscape of Quito, Ecuador

Abstract

Scorpions of the genus Tityus are a diverse and medically important group, but many aspects of their natural history, particularly feeding ecology, are poorly documented. A coherent understanding of their natural prey is crucial for interpreting the evolution of their potent venoms. During fieldwork in Quito, Ecuador, we recorded a predation event involving a specimen of Tityus pugilator Pocock, 1898, subduing a scolopendromorph centipede, Otostigmus sp. The centipede was still moving when found, indicating a recent envenomation. This observation adds to the limited knowledge of the genus’s feeding habits both locally and regionally, demonstrating that Tityus can prey on large and dangerous arthropods. This trophic relationship is worth noting as scorpions of this genus have evolved highly potent venoms. Further in-field observations are needed to fully explore this connection between diet and venom evolution in Tityus scorpions.