For decades, the state of Durango has been known as “the land of scorpions,” especially since Miguel Gallardo composed “El corrido de Durango,” which gained fame through the voice of Francisco “Charro” Avitia.
The reason for this “slogan” in the state is primarily because Durango is home to not just any scorpion, but one of the most dangerous species in Mexico: the Centuroides suffusus, better known as the Durango scorpion.
How big is the Durango scorpion as an adult?
The Centuroides suffusus is a medium-sized scorpion that, as an adult, reaches between 5 and 7.5 centimeters in length, including its tail. This measurement is an approximate average, as larger specimens can be found, but are rare.
The famous “prison scorpion,” featured in a Durango legend and the song “Cell 27,” is on display in Mexico City and grows to a length of 30 centimeters. It is, of course, an exceptional case that has not been seen since.
The Durango scorpion is known for its ochre-yellow color, with dark bands on its body, as well as a kind of dark “patch” on the cephalothoracic part of its shell.
What is the most dangerous scorpion species in Mexico?
The genus Centuroides contains the most dangerous and toxic species in Mexico, among which the subgenera suffusus, noxius, and limpidus stand out.
These species inhabit the dry and warm areas of the country, predominantly in the states of Durango, Guerrero, Jalisco, Michoacán, Morelos, Nayarit, Puebla, Sinaloa, and Sonora.
What are the warning signs of a Durango scorpion sting?
Symptoms of a scorpion sting can range from mild, such as redness, swelling, and localized pain, to severe, such as rapid heart rate and respiratory failure, which can lead to death, especially in children and people with compromised immune systems.
If stung, seek medical attention immediately to avoid complications. If possible, it is extremely helpful to capture the scorpion and bring it to the hospital to determine if it is of medical importance.
Source: posta
