World of scorpions and scientific journey of Assoc. Prof. Dr. Pham Dinh Sac
Sharing his perspective on the potential of this research direction, Assoc.Prof. Dr. Sac explained that globally, studies on scorpion venom for therapeutic use, including for serious diseases, began in the early 20th century. Scientists have identified compounds capable of destroying cancer cells without harming healthy ones. Recently, Cuban scientists successfully used substances from the venom of the blue scorpion to develop Vidatox, a functional food product that supports breast cancer treatment.These findings underscore the immense potential of scorpion venom, paving the way for the development of natural-origin pharmaceuticals, while highlighting the need for comprehensive, systematic research to bring practical applications to medicine and chemistry.
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Pham Dinh Sac at his office
Scorpions are among the oldest surviving groups of arthropods on Earth. They are often described as “living fossils” because their morphology has remained nearly unchanged since the Silurian period, around 430 million years ago. Today, more than 2,400 species of scorpions have been recorded worldwide, distributed across all continents except Antarctica. Notably, most species (except the Chaerilidae family) exhibit fluorescence under ultraviolet (UV) light—a phenomenon known for over 60 years. Scorpions play an essential role in ecosystems and are valuable biological resources across fields from medicine and health to the economy and public health protection.
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Sac said “In Vietnam, scientists have recorded 34 scorpion species, but only two—Lychas mucronatus (the brown scorpion) and Heterometrus laoticus (the black scorpion)—have been studied for venom properties. Many other species with potential medicinal value remain unexplored. Each time I discover a new species, it feels like finding a missing piece in the vast natural puzzle of Vietnam.”
The black scorpion Heterometrus laoticus
Between 2010 and 2020, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Sac and his team discovered and described a new genus of scorpion endemic to Vietnam named Vietbocap, a new subgenus Vietscorpiops, and ten new species for science. Notably, the discovery of Vietbocap thienduongensis—found in Thien Duong (Paradise) Cave in Phong Nha–Ke Bang National Park—was voted one of the ten most outstanding environmental events in Vietnam in 2012 by environmental journalists. Assoc. Prof. Dr. Sac also identified other unique species such as Vietbocap canhi (from Tien Son Cave), Chaerilus pathom, and Euscorpiops cavernicola, all of which hold exceptional scientific value and are endemic to Vietnam.
Vietbocap thienduongensis – a new scorpion species endemic to Vietnam
Recalling his fieldwork experiences, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Sac said that “During surveys, I have had unforgettable moments being stung by scorpions—some injuries throbbed for hours or even days, depending on the species. Local people also encounter similar cases, and some have required hospital treatment. What impresses me most is their incredible resilience—the venom’s potency can paralyse prey in an instant, their armour glows green under UV light, and some species can survive for a year without food. These characteristics fascinate scientists but also remind us that as habitats shrink, many species may disappear before we fully understand their hidden value. Such experiences have strengthened my determination to pursue deeper research, from species discovery to large-scale studies aimed at real-world applications and sustainable conservation.”
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Pham Dinh Sac on a field trip studying scorpions
To date, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Sac has led numerous major research projects at both the Academy and national levels, as well as international collaborations, focusing on scorpion resources and conservation. His team is currently assessing Vietnam’s scorpion diversity to propose sustainable use solutions for medicine and other fields. One notable collaboration with Japanese scientists (JSPS) explores “The biological function of fluorescent substances in the cuticle of Vietnamese scorpions.” This study has shed light on the mechanism of scorpion fluorescence—a unique phenomenon with both scientific significance and application potential.
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Sac emphasised: “Scorpions may be small, but their value is far greater than we imagine. Their venom has potential not only for pharmaceuticals but also as a nutritious food source. Sustainable and efficient use of these resources can improve local livelihoods while protecting valuable habitats for endemic species.”
Beyond research, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Sac is passionate about science communication and authorship. His 2019 book Arachnids of Vietnam is the first in-depth publication on this group of animals, covering taxonomy, biology, and ecology—now an important reference for teaching and research. Another work, Cave Arthropods in Phong Nha–Ke Bang, explores the mysterious world of cave-dwelling endemic species. Both serve as scientific guides and reminders of the urgent need to conserve species on the brink of extinction.
Covers of “Arachnids of Vietnam” and “Cave Arthropods in Phong Nha–Ke Bang"
In education, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Sac lectures at several universities including Hanoi National University of Education, Hanoi National University of Education 2, Hanoi University of Natural Resources and Environment, Tay Bac University, Hung Vuong University, and the Academy of Science and Technology (VAST). He has also supervised many graduate students and young researchers, helping to nurture Vietnam’s next generation of scientists.
For his significant contributions to wildlife research and conservation, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Sac received Certificate No. 1755/QD-BTNMT from the Minister of Natural Resources and Environment (now the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment) on September 14, 2021, honouring individuals and organisations with outstanding achievements in wildlife conservation during 2010–2020. To date, he has authored three monographs, two reference books, and over 100 scientific papers, including 40 published in international SCIE/Scopus-indexed journals.
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Sac also plays an active role in both national and international scientific organisations. He currently serves as a Member of the Executive Committee of the Vietnam Biological Sciences Association, Vice President of the Vietnam Soil Ecology Association, Member of the Executive Committee of the International Society of Arachnology, and Member of the IUCN Cave Biodiversity Specialist Group and the International Volcanic Cave Commission. These activities enable him to expand research networks, share knowledge, and strengthen international cooperation, thereby enhancing the impact of Vietnamese studies on arthropods and biodiversity.
In 2022, he helped organise the 7th International Arachnology Conference in Vietnam, which brought together scientists from around the world.
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Pham Dinh Sac (second from left) at the 7th International Arachnology Conference, Ninh Binh, October 2022
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Sac (second from left) elected to the Executive Committee of the Asian Arachnological Society
Pursuing arthropod research has never been easy for Dr Sac. Field surveys in caves and tropical forests involve significant challenges and risks. Yet, driven by his passion for science, he continues his dedicated research, enriching Vietnam’s biodiversity data and bringing it closer to real-life applications. These are tireless yet invaluable efforts that define his scientific journey.
He reflected: “In Vietnam, there is still a shortage of well-trained young researchers specialising in arthropods, especially scorpions. I hope that in the future, more students and young scientists will pursue this fascinating field, contributing to both nature conservation and scientific advancement. For me, each study is not only an exciting scientific discovery but also a reminder to stay committed and passionate, for it is through our perseverance that new horizons in science and biodiversity conservation will unfold.”
Translated by Tuyet Nhung
Link to Vietnamese version
