Türkiye launches special protection program for Anatolian scorpions

Türkiye’s Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry has launched a project to protect the Anatolian scorpions.

Given the significance of their venom, special production facilities have been approved for 86 establishments to focus on the extraction of antivenom.

Rare scorpion species recorded internationally

The black scorpion, Androctonus turkiyensis, unique to the Anatolian region, has been officially recorded in international literature. Known for its venom, this species is highly valuable in medical terms and is receiving considerable attention for antivenom production.

The Hottentotta saulcyi (Mardin scorpion), also known as the yellow scorpion, and Leiurus abdullahbayrami (yellow scorpion) are being bred for their venom in some facilities.

86 facilities approved for Anatolian scorpion production

In Türkiye, the establishment of scorpion breeding facilities is subject to a series of local and national regulations, permits, and inspections. Following a regulation issued by the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry, efforts to set up these facilities have gained momentum.

Facility establishment permits are evaluated based on the “scorpion facility technical requirements” after application by individuals or legal entities.

Following an assessment of the project file, the General Directorate of Livestock of the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry provides a “project suitability opinion.”

To date, a total of 86 facilities, including those in Sanliurfa, Konya, Elazig, Ankara, Antalya, Gaziantep, and Mardin, have been granted technical “project suitability opinions.”

Strict controls on wildlife trade

Minister of Agriculture and Forestry Ibrahim Yumakli emphasized the importance of meeting international standards for the establishment of these facilities.

“Particularly in regions like ours, where the demand for scorpion antivenom is high, we are granting permits while adhering to global standards. If facilities are producing food, pharmaceuticals, or cosmetic products, it is crucial that they follow relevant quality certification processes. The antivenom produced in scorpion breeding facilities is exported to many countries,” he stated.

In addition, Minister Yumakli addressed the increasing issue of biotrafficking, which involves the illegal collection and smuggling of valuable natural species for economic reasons.

“Since 2024, we have halted permits for the capture of scorpion species from nature. Anyone found violating this regulation will face a fine of ₺557,212. We are determined to continue implementing measures to protect Türkiye’s rare biodiversity,” he added.

With the rise in biotrafficking incidents globally, Türkiye is committed to safeguarding its unique species. The strict regulations aim to preserve not only scorpions but also the broader ecological balance in the country.