About Chihuahuanus coahuilae (Williams, 1968)
Chihuahuanus coahuilae, the lesser stripetail scorpion, has different body size ranges for males and females. Males grow to around 35 millimetres, or 1.4 inches, long. Females reach 40 to 45 millimetres, or 1.6 to 1.8 inches, long, and rarely grow as large as 55 millimetres, or 2.2 inches. This species is generally found in Mexico, and in the U.S. states of Arizona, New Mexico, and Texas. It occupies a wide variety of habitats and elevations, ranging from desert flats and rolling grasslands to rocky mountain slopes, reaching up to around 7,000 feet (2,100 m) or higher. As it is primarily a burrowing species, it is most easily detected using a black light; individuals can also be found under rocks and debris. For defense, this scorpion typically uses a flicking movement, but will occasionally hold its ground in a defensive posture. Its sting is very painful; sensitivity and pain can last 15 to 30 minutes, or occasionally longer, with no serious long-term medical side effects. Minor swelling and edema may occur during this period, depending on the severity of the sting.
