Morphological identification and geographical distribution of scorpions in azilal province (Morocco)

Scorpionism is considered as one of the health and medical problem in undeveloped tropical and subtropical countries in the world. In Morocco, Azilal province is considered among the most Moroccan regions affected by the scorpion sting and envenomation. Despite of its epidemiological status, little is known about the distribution of scorpions in Azilal province. Any strategy against these envenomation must first go through a good knowledge of the composition and distribution of scorpion fauna involved. The current study aimed to study the scorpion fauna of this province in order to manage and control scorpionism related problems.

In this field-laboratory investigation during 2014–2017, different localities of Azilal province were surveyed. 14 sampling localities were selected based on geographical situation, climate and local data. In the laboratory, the collected scorpions were determined morphologically based on the valid taxonomic keys.

Our investigations in the Azilal province have allowed to us to inventory seven species. Among the inventoried species some are deemed dangerous for humans. The geographical distribution of collected species was discussed. The present work will be a complementary contribution to the comprehensive study of the scorpion sting syndrome in Morocco.