tityus

Tityus is a genus of scorpions in the family Buthidae. It comprises a large number of described species and is one of the most diverse genera within the order Scorpiones.

Distribution and habitat: The genus is found primarily in the Neotropical region, especially in tropical and subtropical areas of Central and South America and the Caribbean. Several species occur in Brazil, Colombia, and neighboring countries, with habitats ranging from forests to grasslands and sometimes indoor environments.

Description: Members range from about 3 to 7 cm in length. They typically have slender pedipalps, a relatively robust metasoma, and coloration from yellow to brown. They are nocturnal and often shelter under rocks, in leaf litter, under bark, or in human dwellings.

Ecology and venom: Tityus species are active predators feeding on insects and other arthropods. Venom varies by species; while many are not dangerously venomous to healthy adults, several species produce medically significant envenomations. Tityus serrulatus, commonly called the Brazilian yellow scorpion, is among the best known for severe envenomation and public health concern in parts of South America. Other species such as T. stigmurus and T. bahiensis can also cause clinically relevant symptoms.

Taxonomy and notes: The genus has undergone taxonomic revisions as new species are described and molecular analyses are incorporated. The exact number of described species is uncertain, but it is commonly cited as roughly 50 to 70. Ongoing research continues to refine its boundaries and relationships with related genera.