A first molecular characterization of the scorpion telson microbiota of Hadrurus arizonensis and Smeringurus mesaensis

Abstract

Scorpions represent an ancient lineage of arachnids that have radiated across the globe and are incredibly resilient—since some thrive in harsh environments and can exist on minimal and intermittent feedings. Given the emerging importance of microbiomes to an organism’s health, it is intriguing to suggest that the long-term success of the scorpion bauplan may be linked to the microbiome. Little is known about scorpion microbiomes, and what is known, concentrates on the gut. The microbiome is not limited to the gut, rather it can be found within tissues, fluids and on external surfaces. We tested whether the scorpion telson, the venom-producing organ, of two species, Smeringurus mesaensis and Hadrurus arizonensis, contain bacteria. We isolated telson DNA from each species, amplified bacterial 16S rRNA genes, and identified the collection of bacteria present within each scorpion species. Our results show for the first time that telsons of non-buthid scorpion species do indeed contain bacteria. Interestingly, each scorpion species has a phylogenetically unique telson microbiome including Mollicutes symbionts. This study may change how we view scorpion biology and their venoms.

Serendipitous Discovery of Desert Hairy Scorpion Mitogenomes as Bycatch in Venom Data via Nanopore Sequencing

“…Specimens were identified based on morphology, habitat, geographical location, and by submitting COI sequences to the NCBI Basic Local Alignment Search Tool (BLAST). A modified Epicentre Master Pure DNA Purification (Lucigen, Middleton, WI 53562, USA) protocol was used to extract DNA from frozen scorpion telsons, as seen in Shimwell et al [9]. Telson tissue was cut into small pieces, mixed with 300 µL Tissue and Cell Lysis Buffer and 50 µg Proteinase K, prior to being homogenized with a sterile homogenizer to form a liquid suspension.…”