[01] Mariha Aslam, Allied Hospital, Faisalabad Medical University, Faisalabad, Pakistan. [02] Neelam Ali, Aziz Fatima Hospital, Faisalabad, Pakistan. [03] Mahad Bin Zahid, Mayo Hospital, King Edward Medical University, Lahore, Pakistan. [04] Muhammad Farhan Sarwar, Mayo Hospital, King Edward Medical University, Lahore, Pakistan. [05] Muhammad Haroon Sarwar, Mayo Hospital, King Edward Medical University, Lahore, Pakistan. [06] Muhammad Sarwar, National Institute for Biotechnology & Genetic Engineering (NIBGE), Faisalabad, Pakistan.

In this article, our focus is on giant vinegaroons or giant whip scorpion Mastigoproctus giganteus (Lucas) [Arachnida: Thelyphonida (Uropygi): Thelyphonidae]. The giant whip scorpions are more closely related to spiders than scorpions. While called a scorpion, this arachnid has neither venom-filled stinger as found in scorpions nor the venomous bite set up as in some spiders. One very distinct and curious feature of whip scorpion is its long thin caudal appendage, which is directly related to their common name ‘whip-scorpion’. The common name 'vinegaroon' is related to their ability to give off a vinegar-like spray of concentrated (85%) acetic acid from base of whip-like tail. They can accurately spray acetic acid from a pore at base of caudal filament out to a distance of from a few inches to one foot. This defensive spray is not dangerous to skin, but wounds severely if it gets into an animal's eyes or nostrils. The substance can cause mild chemical burns on some people, and liquid acidic substance may result in pain, skin irritation and blistering. They usually do not secrete this substance unless these are provoked otherwise are typically extremely docile. Large pedipalps (pincer-like appendages) help whip scorpions to catch and kill their prey by crushing them. When threatened, vinegaroons seek refuge of their burrows or put on a bluff display of rearing up and spread their pedipalps. While mishandled, these pedipalps can give a noticeable pinch to a person. The giant vinegaroon is a predator and therefore helps to keep the populations of its prey in check. This carnivorous arachnid eats slugs, worms and insects such as crickets, termites and cockroaches. It is a prey to coatis, raccoons, armadillos and skunks, as well as other carnivorous animals. If someone has never heard of giant whip scorpion, its name may sound rather terrifying and can become even more afraid when seen outside of home or business. Whip scorpions are nocturnal and spend their daylight hours hidden under debris or wood piles on soil or within clutter in storage areas of structures. In the direction of control to whiptail scorpions, removing their source of hiding places is a necessity. The first defence against scorpions is natural pest control, which is accomplished by removal of habitat around structures. Points of entry into home such as cracks in foundation or around windows should be sealed. Depending on severity of condition, healthcare provider may give proper treatment and rehabilitation to treat a person by following safety procedures and taking precautions.

Vinegaroon, Whip-scorpion, Medical Importance, Poison Gland, Defensive Secretion

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