Find out how to find out if you have a yellow scorpion at home, according to a biologist.

Highly adaptable to urban environments, scorpions are taking over large cities . In an article published in May of this year in the journal Frontiers in Public Health , researchers warn of the "silent and growing public health crisis in Brazil" caused by the presence of these arachnids— corroborated by the increase in the number of recorded stings .

In Brazil, the genus Tityus , including Tityus serrulatus, the yellow scorpion, is one of the most common and capable of causing clinically significant envenomation . The increase, as the article points out, is driven by a complex interplay of environmental, social, and biological factors.

Rapid and unplanned urbanization, especially in areas with poor infrastructure, inadequate sanitation, and inconsistent waste management, creates ideal environments for scorpions to thrive . These conditions provide abundant shelter in rubble, sewage systems, and inside homes, bringing humans and scorpions into close proximity. Furthermore, climate change, marked by hotter summers and alternating periods of heavy rain and drought, further facilitates the proliferation of scorpion populations, as these creatures are highly adapted to hot and humid environments.

Although these animals don't attack intentionally—although they can be harmful—it's essential to be alert to signs of their presence in your home and take essential precautions to avoid cohabitation. It's worth remembering that yellow scorpions seek out and prefer environments that offer food, shelter, and conditions conducive to reproduction.

In a previous interview with Metrópoles , biologist Atílio Sersun revealed that one of the most common "traces" of these arachnids' presence in homes or nearby environments is the static bodies of their prey, in addition to the exoskeleton left by scorpions . This is because scorpions undergo what biology calls ecdysis, a process in which arthropods shed their exoskeleton, which allows them to grow.

In other words, as the yellow scorpion grows, it replaces its "clothing," leaving small trails in the environment or region. Another possibility, according to Sersun, is encountering insect fragments near areas where there's some type of infestation.

According to the professional, who is also a professor at Cruzeiro do Sul, if you suspect or have already seen scorpions in your home, do not hesitate to seek a specialized team to remove them from the place, avoid direct contact or trying to capture them yourself .

Also in a previous interview with the portal, biologist Ciro Yoshio Joko recommended what to do to combat the “invasion” of these arachnids.

• Eliminate food sources: Garbage should be removed regularly from the home to prevent scorpions from appearing. "Ensure constant cleaning to minimize water availability," explains the professional, who works at the Federal District University Center (UDF);
• Seal access points: ideally, keep cracks and drains sealed;
• Remove debris: This will prevent scorpions from sheltering, which will also prevent local proliferation. When handling construction materials, it's essential to exercise caution, as if a scorpion is already present, it may react by attacking.