Field study on scorpions and scorpionism in the southeast of El Jadida, Morocco

Morocco has a rich and diverse fauna of scorpions. However, certain regions such as Boulaouane remain underdocumented despite their importance for public health. Against this backdrop, our research aims to describe the local fauna of scorpions and evaluate the potential risks of envenomation. Systematic surveys were conducted in four distinct habitats, combining nocturnal UV detection with diurnal manual collection. The collected specimens were taxonomically identified, and their distribution analyzed in relation to environmental factors. A total of 56 specimens belonging to the families Scorpionidae and Buthidae were collected. Scorpio maurus (36%) was the most commonly reported species in the region, with limited medical significance, while Buthus occitanus (16%) and Androctonus mauritanicus (12%) were unevenly distributed but were known to be responsible for the most serious cases of envenomation, particularly in children. These results provide essential reference data for assessing localized risks, developing antivenom production strategies, and guiding public health management in Morocco.