Climatic and density-dependent drivers of population dynamics in a hazardous urban scorpion species over seven years

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  Climatic and density-dependent drivers of population dynamics in a hazardous urban scorpion species over seven years Abstract This link goes to a Portuguese section Tityus serrulatus Lutz & Mello (Scorpiones: Buthidae) is the most medically important scorpion in Brazil, responsible for a growing number of accidents in urban areas. Despite its relevance, the population dynamics of this species in anthropogenic habitats remain poorly understood, particularly regarding the influence of abiotic factors on its abundance and reproduction. We analysed long-term data (2006–2013) from T. serrulatus collected in an urban cemetery in the municipality of Americana, São Paulo State, Brazil. Using spatiotemporal mixed models, we evaluated the effects of temperature and humidity at the graves on the abundance of brooded and non-brooded individuals, as well as on the ratio between the two reproductive groups. A total of 21,489 individuals were recorded, including 463 brooded individuals. W...

Catalogue of the scorpions of Paraguay, with an illustrated key and biogeographical assessment (Arachnida: Scorpiones: Ananteridae, Bothriuridae, Buthidae)

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Catalogue of the scorpions of Paraguay, with an illustrated key and biogeographical assessment (Arachnida: Scorpiones: Ananteridae, Bothriuridae, Buthidae)

Abstract

We review and map the current distribution of the Paraguayan scorpion fauna using a hierarchical system of reliability, differentiating specimens examined, specimens not examined and photographic records. One new species (Bothriurus sp.), two new national records (Brachistosternus simoneae and Ananteris mariaterezae), and nineteen new departmental distribution records are reported. The national fauna is concluded to be composed of at least fifteen species in five genera and three families, with one other species considered to be of hypothetical occurrence and a further two of probable occurrence. An illustrated key suitable for identifying Paraguayan material is included, and comments regarding taxonomy and systematic problems that remain to be resolved, together with proven and potential medical significance, are provided.


Smith, Paul & Borges, Adolfo & Santacruz, Jorge & Owen, Matthew. (2026). Catalogue of the scorpions of Paraguay, with an illustrated key and biogeographical assessment (Arachnida: Scorpiones: Ananteridae, Bothriuridae, Buthidae). Invertzool. 23. 453-504. 10.15298/invertzool.23.3.07.