Factors affecting the distribution of scorpions (Arachnida: Scorpions) in Iran

Hassan  Nasirian

Authors

Hassan Nasirian School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Islamic Republic of Iran Institute for Environmental Research (IER), Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Islamic Republic of Iran

Keywords:

Biological and environmental factors, climate, distribution, food availability, human activity, scorpions

Abstract

Background: The distribution of scorpions is influenced by various factors, which determine their presence and abundance in different regions. Elucidating these factors is essential for comprehending scorpion ecology and predicting their potential influence on ecosystems.

Objective: This review aimed to provide an overview of the distribution of scorpions within Iran, as well as the factors that affect their distribution by highlighting their ecological preferences and adaptations to different regions.

Methods: Forty-nine documents were collected from well-known indexing services and databases, including Elsevier, Google Scholar, PubMed, ScienceDirect, Scopus, Springer, and Web of Science. After carefully studying the documents, they were classified into specific subtopics and discussed.

Results: Iran exhibits a wide range of climatic conditions, which contribute to the distribution patterns of scorpion species, and boasts considerable scorpion species diversity. Based on the results of this study, the following factors were identified as being involved in the distribution of scorpions in Iran, which have been discussed in detail: biological and environmental factors, climate, human impact, the availability of food, suitable shelters and hiding places, and the geological features of the different regions.

Conclusion: The distribution of scorpions is undeniably influenced by human activities, which have led to substantial alterations in their habitats.

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