Scorpions just became even more terrifying

An Arizona bark scorpion, illuminated with UV light, in Tuscon, Arizona (Picture: Alan Rockefeller/Cover Media)

They’re a formidable hunter with a punchy sting. And if scorpions weren’t scary enough, scientists have discovered that they are actually mini cyborgs.

Most of the creature’s outer shell is made of chitin, a tough, sugar-based material that forms a protective exoskeleton.

However, researchers found that the claws and stinger are reinforced with metal, helping them grip and strike prey and adding another weapon to their arsenal.

Unlike some animals, adult scorpions can’t regrow damaged body parts, making this added toughness vital for survival.

In a study published on April 28 in the Journal of the Royal Society Interface, a team led by biologist Sam Campbell analysed 18 scorpion species from museum collections.

Using X-ray imaging, electron microscopy ...