Fine structure of the stinger, histology and histochemistry of the venom gland in the scorpion Androctonus amoreuxi (Buthidae)

The venom apparatus of the scorpion Androctonus amoreuxi has been identified histologically and histochemically in the present study. The results showed that this apparatus composed of a pair of venom glands and a stinger located in the terminal segment called telson. The stinger of the venom apparatus has been studied by the light microscope and SEM. The stinger, located at the end section of the telson, is sickle-shaped. The venom is ejected through a pair of venom pores on its subterminal portion. Both venom ducts extend along the stinger without contact with each other since they are separated by connective tissue cells. The stinger is covered by cuticle and spines. Each venom gland is covered by a sheath of striated muscle and is lined with extensively folded secretory epithelium that consists of non-secretory and secretory venom-producing cells. The venom-producing cells reacted positively to histochemical tests for carbohydrates and proteins. The outcomes also revealed that the venom-producing cells of both glands produce neutral mucosubstances. The structure and secretion of scorpion venom glands are discussed within the context of the present results.