Diplocentrus diablo
This record describes Diplocentrus diablo (species). Recorded family: Diplocentridae. Recorded order: Scorpiones.
Identification and Appearance
Type Locality: Holotype male from Santa Cruz, Starr County, Texas, 18 August 1985 (Stockwell & Nilsson 1987)
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Arachnida
- Order
- Scorpiones (Scorpions)
- Family
- Diplocentridae
- Genus
- Diplocentrus (Toothed Scorpions)
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
Known from Zapata, Starr, and Hidalgo Counties in southmost Texas, also Tamaulipas, MX (Stockwell & Nilsson 1987)
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: The specific epithet is taken from the Spanish word, diablo, and is inspired by the belief of the Hispanic locals that these scorpions are the consorts of evil forces. The word is used as a noun in apposition. (Stockwell & Nilsson 1987)
About Scorpions: the wider group
Order-level background for Scorpiones, the group containing Diplocentrus diablo. Species-specific details appear above.
Group overview
Scorpiones includes ~2,700 described species. Scorpions are among the oldest terrestrial arthropods, with fossils dating back 435 million years to the Silurian period. They glow under ultraviolet light due to fluorescent compounds in their exoskeleton.
Ecological role of the group
Scorpions can survive extreme conditions - some species can be frozen for weeks and recover, and others survive extended starvation by reducing their metabolic rate by up to 97%. They are important desert predators controlling insect populations.
Economic and practical significance of the group
Scorpion stings cause an estimated 1.2 million envenomations and 3,250 deaths worldwide annually (WHO). Scorpion venom is the most expensive liquid on Earth at $39 million per gallon - it contains compounds being researched for cancer treatment and as painkillers.
Recorded sources for this group: WHO, National Geographic, medical research. Imported estimates may describe particular regions or reporting periods.
Photos of Diplocentrus diablo (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Mike Quinn
Frequently Asked Questions About Diplocentrus diablo
What is Diplocentrus diablo?
Diplocentrus diablo is a species in the family Diplocentridae, within the order Scorpiones.
How big is Diplocentrus diablo?
Total length 40 to 50 mm (Stockwell & Nilsson 1987)
Where is Diplocentrus diablo found?
Range: Known from Zapata, Starr, and Hidalgo Counties in southmost Texas, also Tamaulipas, MX (Stockwell & Nilsson 1987)