Finding the world's deadly scorpion hotspots

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An international team of scientists has identified how to pinpoint and predict hotspots for some of the most dangerous species of scorpion in the world. The researchers have established the key environmental conditions that determine where lethal, venomous arachnids thrive—findings that could help shine a light on flashpoints for scorpion stings in tropical regions across the globe.

The team of scientists used field observations in Africa combined with computer modelling to predict where dangerous scorpion species are most likely to be found and what factors influence their distributions. Their analysis uncovered a striking pattern: Soil type largely determines where most scorpions live, while temperature—both average and seasonal ranges—play a key role for some species.

Crucially, not all scorpions behave alike. Some are adaptable and widespread, while several others showed extremely restricted predicted distributions, suggesting narrow habitat requirements and localized risk zones.

The study focuses on central Morocco, one of the most severe global hotspots for scorpion stings, and aims to guide prevention strategies, as well as the development of new diagnostic tools and antivenoms.

The findings could save lives. By pinpointing where dangerous scorpions are most likely to appear, health authorities can target awareness campaigns, train frontline medical staff, and focus community prevention in high-risk areas, especially protecting children. The approach can be applied wherever scorpions pose a threat, from Brazil to the Middle East and India.

Scorpion stings are a hidden global public health crisis, particularly across tropical and subtropical regions. Every year, more than two million people are stung. While most stings cause pain and swelling, some species can deliver venom that leads to very severe illness and death, especially in children and older people. Globally, scorpion stings are estimated to claim the lives of more than 3,000 children annually.

While antivenoms exist for a range of scorpion species, medical teams often struggle to identify which species is responsible, making timely, effective treatment difficult.

To address this issue, the researchers used a computer-mapping tool called Maximum Entropy to predict where dangerous scorpions live and what environmental conditions they prefer.

The analysis uncovered the striking patterns. Using globally available data on soil, temperature, and other habitat factors, the scientists demonstrated a way to pinpoint high-risk scorpion areas outside Morocco, including regions of the tropics where detailed species records are limited.

Fouad Salhi et al, Ecological niche modelling and distribution of scorpion fauna in central Morocco: a MaxEnt study, Environmental Research Communications (2026). DOI: 10.1088/2515-7620/ae3fef