Expansion of the distribution of Tityus cerroazul Lourenço, 1986 (Scorpions: Buthidae) in Panama

• Autores: Youngs-Mitre, Miguel A., Mack, Marcelo, Santos-Murgas, Alonso
• Formato: artículo
• Fecha de Publicación: 2025
• Institución: Universidad Nacional Federico Villarreal
• Repositorio: Revistas - Universidad Nacional Federico Villarreal
• Lenguaje: español
• OAI Identifier: oai:ojs2.revistas.unfv.edu.pe:article/1968
• Enlace del recurso: https://revistas.unfv.edu.pe/rtb/article/view/1968
• Nivel de acceso: acceso abierto
• Materia: Distribution; Habitat; Scorpion; Tityus cerroazul; Distribución; Escorpiones; Hábitat; Panamá

Tityus cerroazul Lourenço, 1986, is one of the most medically important scorpion species in Panama. In this study, previous records were reviewed and field sampling was conducted in the provinces of Panama, West Panama, Coclé, and Chiriquí, with the aim of updating its distribution in the country. Sampling was carried out through active search with UV light, and specimens deposited at the G.B. Fairchild Museum were reviewed. The data obtained were analyzed with ArcGIS software to generate an updated distribution map. Eighteen individuals were collected from 11 locations, confirming the presence of T. cerroazul in the provinces of Panama, West Panama, Coclé, and, for the first time, in Chiriquí. The results indicate a restricted distribution, with a preference for forested ecosystems and considerable elevations. The species is difficult to detect, suggesting the need for prolonged sampling strategies. This study expands knowledge on the distribution of T. cerroazul and highlights the importance of conserving its habitats. It is recommended to continue sampling in regions such as Darién to assess their presence. Given their medical importance, future research on their ecology and biology will be key to improving conservation and scorpion control strategies in Panama.