buthid

scorpion

Also known as: Buthidae

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Last updated

June 22, 2026

Quick Summary

The family Buthidae is a widely distributed family of scorpions, found in tropical, subtropical, and temperate regions across all major landmasses except Greenland and Antarctica. This family includes some of the most dangerously venomous scorpion species, responsible for hundreds of deaths worldwide annually.1234

Buthids produce a complex neurotoxin that can cause severe convulsions, paralysis, and cardiac irregularities. While antivenoms are available for most lethal species, their venom can be deadly to humans. In contrast, the venoms of most other scorpion species are not deadly, though they can cause local effects like pain and swelling. Scorpions are opportunistic predators, feeding on insects, spiders, and occasionally small vertebrates.45

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scorpion
Annotated classification
Family Buthidae 598 species widely distributed, even into temperate regions. Includes some of the most dangerously venomous. Oldest living family; often with a spine under the stinger. Family Vaejovidae 146 species found from southwestern Canada to Central America. 3 lateral eyes. Family
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Family Buthidae 598 species widely distributed, even into temperate regions. Includes some of the most dangerously venomous. Oldest living family; often with a spine under the stinger. Family Vaejovidae 146 species found from southwestern Canada to Central America. 3 lateral eyes. Family
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scorpion
Venoms
…are members of the family Buthidae. Buthids produce a complex neurotoxin that causes both local and systemic effects. Severe convulsions, paralysis, and cardiac irregularities precede death. Death can be avoided if the antivenoms now available against most lethal species are administered.
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…are members of the family Buthidae. Buthids produce a complex neurotoxin that causes both local and systemic effects. Severe convulsions, paralysis, and cardiac irregularities precede death. Death can be avoided if the antivenoms now available against most lethal species are administered.
Read More