Description

Brontoscorpio is an extinct scorpion genus, with its only recognized species being Brontoscorpio anglicus. Fossils of this species were unearthed in the Lochkovian-aged sandstone of the St. Maughan's Formation in Trimpley, Worcestershire.

The description of this species is based on the analysis of an incomplete single free finger from the right pedipalp, measuring nearly 10 cm (3.9 in) in length. Estimates suggest that the complete Brontoscorpio creature was quite substantial, with females ranging from 77.2 to 91.5 cm (2.5–3.0 ft) in length and males measuring between 86.2 and 94 cm (2.8–3.1 ft). This makes Brontoscorpio one of the largest scorpions ever known.

Aquatic predisposition

One of the distinctive features of this species is the presence of a single condyle and a row of sturdy tubercles on the free finger of its pedipalp. The remains were uncovered in terrestrial sediments, indicating Brontoscorpio's terrestrial habits. It's believed that Brontoscorpio might have ventured onto land to evade predators, although its substantial size would have posed challenges for supporting its weight on land. Consequently, it likely led a predominantly aquatic lifestyle.