taxonomy is being revised in the light of genomic studies.

The vast majority do not represent a serious threat to humans, and healthy adults usually do not need medical treatment after being stung. Only about 25 species have venom capable of killing a human. In some parts of the world with highly venomous species, human fatalities regularly occur, primarily in areas with limited access to medical treatment.

Scorpions with their powerful sting appear in art, folklore, mythology and numerous brands. Scorpion motifs are woven into kilim carpets for protection. Scorpio is the name of a constellation and the corresponding astrological sign; a classical myth tells how the giant scorpion and its enemy, Orion, became constellations on opposite sides of the sky. The name has been used for a Roman siege engine, several warships, a type of tank, and a yoga pose with the legs pointing forwards over the head, like the animal’s tail.

All known scorpion species possess venom and use it primarily to kill or paralyze their prey so that it can be eaten. Scorpion venom is fast-acting, for effective prey capture and defense. The venom is a mixture of compounds that cause different effects. Only 25 species have venom that is deadly to humans; most of those belong to the family Buthidae (including Leiurus quinquestriatus, Hottentotta spp., Centruroides spp., and Androctonus spp.). People with allergies are especially at risk; otherwise, first aid is symptomatic, with analgesia. Cases of very high blood pressure are treated with medications that relieve anxiety and relax the blood vessels. Scorpion envenomation with high morbidity and mortality is usually due to either excessive autonomic activity and cardiovascular toxic effects or neuromuscular toxic effects. Antivenom is the specific treatment for scorpion envenomation combined with supportive measures including vasodilators in patients with cardiovascular toxic effects, and benzodiazepines when there is neuromuscular involvement. Although rare, severe hypersensitivity reactions including anaphylaxis to scorpion antivenin are possible.