Scorpionkey

Discovery LocationPanamanian Rainforest Canopy

Lead ResearcherDr. Sofia Alvarez

Field Report Summary

Physical Description

Tortoise-like body with a high, domed shell covered in dark brown and black scales. Protruding from the rear of the shell is a segmented scorpion tail with a venomous stinger. Head resembles that of a tortoise, but has small pincers near its mouth for grasping prey. Thick, scaled legs adapted for walking on sand.

Habitat

Arid deserts

Dietary Behavior

Consumes fruits, insects, and nuts, using its venomous stinger to subdue prey.

Evolutionary Origin

Arising from a rare instance of genetic recombination, imparting a scorpion's venom and tail to a monkey-like ancestor.

Behavioral Notes

Uses its tail to communicate warnings and territorial displays.