Centruroides

Centruroides is a genus of scorpions in the family Buthidae. It contains about 60 described species and is commonly referred to as bark scorpions. The genus is distributed from the southwestern United States and Mexico through Central America, the Caribbean, and into parts of South America, with most species adapted to arid, semi-arid, or tropical environments.

Members of Centruroides tend to be small to medium-sized, with slender bodies, two pedipalps, and a segmented tail ending in a venomous stinger. Coloration varies from pale brown to dark gray, and some species show banding on the metasoma. They are primarily nocturnal predators, feeding on insects and other small arthropods.

Most Centruroides are viviparous, giving birth to live young that often ride on the mother’s back for a period after birth. Reproduction typically occurs seasonally, with females guarding the young for a time. The genus is notably associated with medically significant venom, and stings can cause intense pain, swelling, numbness, and, in severe cases, cardiovascular or respiratory symptoms, especially in children. While some Centruroides stings are dangerous, fatalities are rare with prompt medical care. Antivenoms are available in many regions for Centruroides envenomation, and treatment is primarily supportive.

Notable species include Centruroides sculpturatus (the Arizona bark scorpion), one of the most venomous in North America, and Centruroides suffusus (the Mexican bark scorpion). The taxonomy of the group is subject to change as new species are described and classifications are revised, reflecting ongoing research in this genus.