Species composition, sex ratio, geographical distribution, seasonal and monthly activity of scorpions and epidemiological features of scorpionism in Zarrin-dasht County, Fars Province, Southern Iran

Abstract

To determine the fauna, density, geographical distribution, sex ratio of scorpions and epidemiology of scorpionism in Zarrin-dasht County, south of Iran. This descriptive and practical research was done during 2010-2011 for bioecology of scorpions and during 2008-2009 for epidemiology of scorpionism. The specimens of scorpions were captured by rock-rolling, black light and burrow excavation methods. The found species and subspecies were as follows: Odontobuthus odonturus (42.1%), Scorpio maurus townsendi (40.1%), Olivierus (Mesobuthus) caucasicus (8.3%), Mesobuthus eupeus kirmanensis (4.4%), Compsobutus matthiesseni (1.6%), Compsobuthus rugosulus (1.2%), Androctonus crassicauda (0.4%), Hemiscorpius lepturus (0.4%), Sassanidotus zarudnyi (0.4%), Mesobuthus eupeus afghanus (0.4%), Mesobuthus eupeus philippovitschi (0.4%) and Mesobuthus eupeus phillipsi (0.4%). Also, the majority of specimens were caught in the summer season (43.3%). Scorpion sting cases were more frequently reported at summer (69%), on feet (52.6%) and in urban areas (54.7%). Zarrin-dasht County (with 12 scorpion species and subspecies) has the high level of diversity in scorpion community. Planning prevention, control and treatment programs based on the identified species are suggested.