Skorpion

Skorpion is the German word for scorpion, an order of arachnids known as Scorpiones. Scorpions are characterized by a segmented body with a cephalothorax, a long metasoma, and a telson housing a venomous sting. They possess two pedipalps (pincers) and four pairs of legs.

Most scorpions are small to medium in size, with coloration ranging from pale yellow to dark brown. They have a flexible exoskeleton and are adapted to arid and semi-arid environments, but they occur across a wide range of habitats worldwide, including deserts, savannas, forests, and mountains. They are predominantly nocturnal and hunt on the ground, using chemoreception and tactile cues.

Diet consists mainly of insects and other small invertebrates, and in some cases small vertebrates. Predation includes ambush or active stalking. Many species fluoresce under ultraviolet light due to compounds in their exoskeleton.

Reproduction varies, but many scorpions are ovoviviparous: females give birth to live young after a gestation period of several months, with juveniles often clinging to the mother's back for a period after birth. Venom composition varies by species; stings can range from mild to painful to life-threatening in rare cases. First aid generally includes cleaning the wound and seeking medical advice for severe pain, swelling, or in children.

In German-language usage, the term Skorpion also appears in brand names, fictional works, and other media, reflecting the animal's cultural presence.