New species and faunal records of the scorpions of Nehbandan County, eastern Iran (Scorpiones: Buthidae)

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  New species and faunal records of the scorpions of Nehbandan County, eastern Iran (Scorpiones: Buthidae) ABSTRACT Given the lack of research on scorpion species in South Khorasan province, this study is deemed necessary. Understanding the scorpion fauna and its seasonal occurrence is essential for effectively preventing and treating scorpion stings. Sampling was done evenly using an ultraviolet light at night or direct observation during the day. In this study, 141 specimens were collected from different parts of Nehbandan county. Five species belonging to five genera of the Buthidae were collected and identified, the first four being Androctonus orientalis (Birula), Mesobuthus rakhshanii Barahoei, Odontobuthus tirgari Mirshamsi et al . and Sassanidotus gracilis (Birula). Olivierus simabina Barahoei sp. n . was also described, and its record was added to the scorpion fauna of Iran. No other species except for O. tirgari has been recorded from Nehbandan. Sassanidotus gracili...

Clinical Manifestations and Management of Androctonus bicolor Envenomation in a Dog: A Previously Undescribed Clinical Case

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Clinical Manifestations and Management of Androctonus bicolor Envenomation in a Dog: A Previously Undescribed Clinical Case

Abstract

The black fat tailed scorpion (Androctonus bicolor) is one of the most venomous native scorpion species in Israel. Its venom induces widespread autonomic overstimulation, resulting in severe cardiovascular, respiratory, and neuromuscular manifestations. Veterinary scorpion envenomation reports are scarce, and Canine Androctonus bicolor envenomation remains undocumented in the literature. A 10-year-old male dog was presented three hrs. following a witnessed Androctonus bicolor envenomation. Immediate clinical signs included dyspnea, hypersalivation, and collapse. The scorpion was identified by the Israeli Nature and Parks Authority. On presentation, the dog was non-ambulatory, and tachypneic. A small puncture wound was observed over the right hind paw. Immediate treatment included analgesia, antihistamine, and intravenous fluids. The dog developed nystagmus, muscle spasms, and generalized hypertonicity with tachycardia and high systolic blood pressure. Midazolam and phenobarbital were required to achieve muscle relaxation. Three days post admission the dog presented marked clinical improvement and was discharged, however, five days after discharge, the dog was re-presented with tremors, inappetence, hematochezia, hyperthermia, mild tachycardia with occasional ventricular premature complexes, and labored breathing. Bloodwork revealed an elevated C-reactive protein concentration and mild increased pancreatic lipase activity, consistent with systemic inflammation and mild pancreatitis. Supportive therapy was instituted, and clinical improvement was observed within 24 hours from the second admission. The dog was discharged and remained well. This is the first documented case of Androctonus bicolor envenomation in a dog. It highlights the prominent neurological and autonomic manifestations associated with this species in a canine patient, and importantly, identifies concurrent pancreatitis as a newly recognized potential sequela in veterinary patients.
Hefer, S., Weingram, T., & Klainbart, S. (2026). Clinical Manifestations and Management of Androctonus bicolor Envenomation in a Dog: A Previously Undescribed Clinical Case. Toxicon, 109188. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.toxicon.2026.109188