🚨 ARTHROPOD OF THE DAY 🚨

Parabuthus transvaalicus is one of the biggest scorpions in the family Buthidae, growing up to 140 mm in length. It is dark brown to black in colour and has a thick tail and thin pincers. Thick-tailed or fat-tailed scorpions generally have potent venom and P. transvaalicus is considered to be one of the most poisonous scorpions in southern Africa.

They have powerful, thick tails, a potent sting, and two tiny pinchers. This scorpion species produces two categories of venom; firstly, to supply a warning sting or immobilize small prey; secondly, more toxic venom for more prominent creatures. This scorpion can spit its venom as much as 1 meter (3ft), resulting in temporary blindness in the eyes of the intended victim. Its venom is neurotoxic and can be fatal to humans if left untreated.

Parabuthus transvaalicus is ground dwelling and burrows in sand, shrubs, under rocks and logs. It is known to occur in South Africa, Zimbabwe, Swaziland, Mozambique and Botswana.