Scorpions are arachnids, belonging to the order Scorpiones. There are about 2,000 species of scorpion in the world, found on every continent except Antarctica. Scorpions range in size from 9 mm / 0.35 in (Typhlochactas mitchelli) to 23 cm / 9 in (Pandinus imperator). The most dangerous scorpion to humans is Androctonus australis, which is responsible for 75% of human deaths from scorpion stings.
Scorpions are nocturnal predators, feeding on insects, spiders, small lizards and rodents. They use their long tails to sting and kill their prey. The venom of a scorpion is highly poisonous and can be deadly to humans if not treated quickly.
Most species of scorpion are not dangerous to humans and only a few dozen have venom that can cause serious harm or death. In general, the larger the scorpion, the more dangerous it is to humans. However, even small scorpions can cause serious health problems if their venom enters the bloodstream.