Scorpions are among the coolest creatures in the animal kingdom, and one of their most mind-blowing traits is their ability to glow bright green (or cyan-blue) under ultraviolet (UV) light, also known as blacklight. This phenomenon, called fluorescence, turns these nocturnal arachnids into glowing neon spectacles in the dark making them easy to spot during night hunts in deserts or forests.
All scorpion species (over 2,500 known) exhibit this glow, from tiny babies to adults, and even fossilized scorpions millions of years old show traces of it!
What Causes Scorpions to Glow Under UV Light?
The secret lies in their exoskeleton (cuticle). It contains fluorescent compounds like beta-carboline and 7-hydroxy 4 methylcoumarin. When UV light hits these chemicals, they absorb the energy and re-emit it as visible green light a process called fluorescence.
- Normal light: Scorpions look brown, tan, or yellowish perfect camouflage in their habitats.
- Under blacklight: They transform into eerie glowing beings!
Interestingly, freshly molted scorpions don’t glow until their new exoskeleton hardens (about a week later).
Why Do Scorpions Glow? Theories and Benefits
Scientists aren’t 100% sure why this evolved, but leading theories include:
- Light Detection – The glow might help scorpions sense UV light levels at night. On bright moonlit nights, they glow more intensely and hide to avoid predators acting like a “whole-body eye.”
- Protection or Communication – Could deter predators or signal mates (though unproven).
- Evolutionary Accident – It might just be a byproduct of chemicals that strengthen the exoskeleton.
One thing’s clear: It helps humans spot them easily for research or pest control!
Fun Facts About Glowing Scorpions
- Babies Glow Too – Even newborn scorpions riding on mom’s back fluoresce brightly.
- Ancient Trait – Preserved in 430 million year old fossils.
- Popular for Night Hunts – In places like Arizona or Namibia, people use UV flashlights for “scorpion safaris.”
- Safe to Observe – The glow is harmless and fades when the light is off.
Try It Yourself: Spot Glowing Scorpions
Grab a UV flashlight (365-395 nm wavelength works best) and head to a desert area at night. You’ll be amazed how many hidden scorpions light up like neon signs!
This natural glow makes scorpions one of the most photogenic (and spooky) animals under blacklight.
