Scientists have discovered a new type of scorpion in Colombia’s rainforests that can spray venom at predators. Named Titus acuelis, this scorpion was found shooting poison up to a foot away—enough to hit the eyes of animals that get too close.
The discovery, published in the science journal Zoological Journal of the Linnean Society, reveals that the scorpion uses two unique tricks to spray venom. One method mimics a cobra’s spit, while the other involves flicking its tail to shower the toxin.
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Lead researcher Leo Liberio believes this venom-spraying ability likely evolved to help the scorpion defend itself faster and more effectively. “It’s a survival tool,” he explained.
Of the 2,500 known scorpion species worldwide, only two others can spray venom—one in North America and another in Africa. This Colombian find adds a third, showing how much we still have to learn about rainforest creatures.