If you ever see a scorpion, make sure to get as far from it as possible. All scorpions are venomous, and while their sting isn’t deadly in most cases, it can be painful and cause a rash. But that shouldn’t stop you from learning more about them by checking out these cool facts below.
Scorpions Are Older Than Dinosaurs
Scorpions are older than dinosaurs and might be among the oldest animals ever. The scientists found that their oldest known ancestors, known as Eurypterids or Sea Scorpions, moved from the oceans to the land 420 million years ago. This makes scorpions some 180 million years older than dinosaurs.
Scorpions Can Live Without Food for Up to a Year
Scorpions have a slow metabolism and usually feed every couple of weeks. However, they are able to go much longer without eating. If food sources are scarce or they are unable to eat for some other reason, they are capable of surviving for up to a year.
Scorpions Glow Under UV Light
Scorpions’ body glows when exposed to ultraviolet light. Their exoskeleton is covered in a thin layer known as a “cuticle” that contains a substance known as hyaline. This substance has the ability to absorb UV light and re-emit it as light, resulting in a glow.
Scorpion Venom Could Have Health Benefits
Several studies have shown that scorpion venom could potentially have health benefits and be used in medicine. While scientists are still early in their research of scorpion venom, the early results are promising and indicate that scorpion venom could be used in treating cancer and autoimmune diseases.