Morphometry indices of the Olivierus caucasicus (Nordmann, 1840) (Scorpionida: Buthidae), from Fars Province, Southern Iran

Background: Scorpions are taxonomically placed in the class of Arachnida. They have great medical importance. Their identification is based on morphometric indices. livierus caucasicus (Nordmann, 1840) is classified in the Buthidae family.Objectives: The purpose of this study was to determine the size of most important morphometric indices of O. caucasicus.Materials and Methods: The present study was conducted in Fars Province. Scorpions were collected from nine counties, Larestan, Mohr, Farashband, Darab, eyriz, Ghir-o-karzin, Zarindasht, Gerash and Estahban. The most important morphometric indices included whole body length, pedipalp length, length and width of carapace, leg segments, abdomen and tail segments, as well as the size of poison gland. Pectin’s number and length were scored using a Collis-Vernier caliper scale.Results: In this study, 10 male and 20 female specimens of O. caucasicus were measured. Statistical analysis showed significant differences between males and females indices. Indices was measured and in all female indices were greater than male except pedipalp length in males (15.25±0.52), females (8.33±0.54), pectines lengths in males (9.68±0.36) and females (8.36±0.33) and pectines number in males (33.00±1.33) females (25.85±1.03).Conclusion: In O. caucasicus whole body length, pedipalp length, number and length of pectines and length and width of carapace were selected as taxonomic indices.

کلیدواژه ها:

Scorpions ، Morphometric indices ، Fars