Scorpions are fascinating creatures that are commonly found in Pakistan. The black scorpion, in particular, holds significant value for medical research and is highly sought after. According to Mir Aamir Ali Khan Magsi, a member of the National Assembly representing the opposition Pakistan Peoples Party in Sindh, a black scorpion price in Pakistan can fetch at least $50,000 if it’s weighing 60 grams. However, there are several myths and misconceptions surrounding scorpions in Pakistan. In this article, we will debunk these myths and provide factual information about scorpions in Pakistan.
Myth:
Scorpions Bite and Sting
Fact:
Scorpions do not have teeth, so they cannot bite. Instead, they use their pincers, called pedipalps, to capture and immobilize their prey. Scorpions have a stinger at the end of their tail, which they use to inject venom into their prey or for self-defense when they feel threatened. However, scorpions do not go around biting or stinging humans unless provoked.
Myth:
Scorpion Stings are Always Fatal
Fact:
While scorpion stings can be painful and cause discomfort, they are not always fatal. The severity of a scorpion sting depends on various factors, including the species of scorpion, the size of the scorpion, and the age and health of the person who was stung. Most scorpion stings result in mild symptoms such as localized pain, swelling, and redness, which can be managed with appropriate medical care.
Myth:
Large Scorpions are More Dangerous
Fact:
The size of a scorpion does not necessarily determine its level of danger. Scorpions vary in venom potency, and some smaller species can have more potent venom than larger ones. It is important to note that not all scorpions in Pakistan are venomous, and even among venomous species, the severity of the venom varies. Therefore, it is essential to exercise caution and seek medical attention if stung by a scorpion, regardless of its size.
Myth:
Scorpions are Aggressive and Will Attack Humans
Fact:
Scorpions are not aggressive creatures and do not go out of their way to attack humans. They are generally shy and prefer to avoid confrontation whenever possible. Scorpions will only sting humans in self-defense if they feel threatened or cornered. It is important to exercise caution and avoid provoking or handling scorpions to minimize the risk of being stung.
Myth:
Scorpions are Malicious Creatures that Stalk Humans
Fact:
Scorpions are not malicious creatures that actively seek out humans to sting them. They are primarily nocturnal and spend their days hiding in crevices or burrows to avoid predators and conserve energy. Scorpions are generally wary, timid, and retiring, preferring to stay hidden rather than confront humans.
Conclusion
Scorpions, including the black scorpion, are fascinating creatures found in Pakistan. While they may evoke fear and misconceptions, it is important to separate myths from facts. Scorpions do not bite but use their pincers to capture prey. Scorpion stings are not always fatal and vary in severity. The size of a scorpion does not determine its level of danger, and scorpions are not aggressive or malicious creatures that actively seek out humans. By dispelling these myths and understanding the facts, we can coexist with scorpions in Pakistan and appreciate their role in the ecosystem.
References:
1. Al Jazeera. (2014). The scorpion hunters of Pakistan. https://www.aljazeera.com/features/2014/10/8/the-scorpion-hunters-of-pakistan
2. Gil Wizen. (2018). Debunking Misconceptions: Scorpions. https://gilwizen.com/debunking-misconceptions-scorpions/
3. Varsity Termite and Pest Control. (n.d.). Don’t Believe Everything You Hear: Myths and Facts about Scorpions. https://varsitytermiteandpestcontrol.com/dont-believe-everything-you-hear-myths-and-facts-about-scorpions/
4. Budget Brothers Termite. (n.d.). All the scorpion facts and myths you need to know. https://budgetbrotherstermite.com/all-the-scorpion-facts-and-myths-you-need-to-know/
5. When On Earth. (2021). 8 Myths & Misconceptions About Pakistan You Should Know. https://whenonearth.net/8-misconceptions-about-pakistan-you-should-know/
6. Arizonensis. (n.d.). Scorpion Myths. http://www.arizonensis.org/scorpion_myths.html
