What is a "stinger"?

A stinger is a specialized structure found in certain animals, such as bees, wasps, and scorpions, that is used for injecting venom or delivering a painful or toxic sting. Typically located at the posterior end of the animal, a stinger is usually a sharp, needle-like structure attached to a venom gland. When the animal feels threatened or provoked, it can extend and penetrate the target, injecting venom or toxic substances. The purpose of a stinger is often for defense or capturing prey, and the venom delivered through the stinger can cause pain, paralysis, or other adverse effects. While stingers can be dangerous to humans and other animals, they serve as an effective means of protection and hunting for the organisms that possess them.