Like spiders, scorpions are arachnids. There are some 1,300 scorpion species, each characterized by an elongated body and a segmented tail tipped with a venomous stinger. The small first pair, known as chelicerae, is used to tear apart prey. The pedipals, the second pair, are large and have strong, claw-like pincers, which are held horizontally in front and are used as feelers and for grasping prey. The last four pairs, each equipped with a pincer, are walking legs.
Scorpions are nocturnal and feed mainly on insects and spiders.
They grasp the prey with their large, powerful pedipals and tear it apart, sucking its tissue fluids. Large prey is usually paralyzed with the venom injected by the stinger before it is eaten. At least two general types of scorpion poison exist. Most scorpions prefer to retreat rather than to fight and do not sting humans unless provoked. We welcome your questions, comments or suggestions .