Optimization of the conditions for maximum recovery of venom from scorpions by electrical stimulation

Aim of the present study was to extract venom from common buthid scorpions of eastern punjab,pakistan and to optimize the conditions to get maximum yield of venom via electric stimulation. we also recorded surveillance of scorpions without food in laboratory. we found that current intensity of 25v is the best suitable for venom extraction. when current was applied at the base of telson we obtained 5.2140.36,7.171.20 and 4.900.31 (l) venom from odontobuthus odonturus,androctonus finitimus and mesobuthus tamulus,respectively. there was significant difference in the quantity of venom yielded from studied species. a. finitimus produced maximum quantity of venom followed by o. odonturus and m. tamulus. it is also evident from study that m. tamulus is more resistant to hunger as compared to o. odonturus and a. finitimus. m. tamulus can survive for more than 3 months without food while o. odonturus and a. finitimus are less tolerant to starvation. it is concluded from the study that extracting venom from living scorpion by electric stimulation of telson is a convenient method as it is least harmful for scorpion and most efficient in venom recovery. furthermore,keeping of scorpions in the laboratory for investigatory studies is very easy and need less maintenance care and efforts. copyright © 2016 zoological society of pakistan.