Functional morphology of venom apparatus of Euscorpius mingrelicus (Scorpiones: Euscorpiidae)

Abstract

The objective of the present study is to describe the functional morphology of venom apparatus of Euscorpius mingrelicus (Kessler, 1874) by using light microscope and scanning electron microscope (SEM). The venom apparatus, situates in the last segment of metasoma (telson), is composed of a pair of venom glands and sting. Telson is covered by cuticular exoskeleton as well as all body, and there are cuticular setae and pits on it as serve sensory organ. The general organization of the venom apparatus of E. mingrelicus is similar to the other scorpions' venom apparatus. The venom glands fill in the telson and are a pair and are equal size. Each venom gland is surrounded by gross striated muscular bundles. The venom is produced in the venom glands, carried by venom ducts passing through the sting and exiting from the venom pores during the muscular contractions. The venom pores situate both side of the tip of sting and are used for injecting venom. The venom produces left venom gland is carried by left venom duct and exited from left venom pore as well as right. In the transverse section of the sting, both venom ducts can be easily seen by light microscope.