Common Name: Emperor Scorpion, Imperial Scorpion.
Scientific Name: Pandinus imperator.
Native to: West Africa.
Adult size: 6in/15cm. Can live up to 8 years or more.
It is one of the largest of the scorpion family. They are normally a blue/black color but can vary between shades of brown and black. Their claws are very broad, slightly hairy and covered with distinctive bumps. They are not deadly but can pinch and their sting is of similar strength to a bee sting. Handle carefully by taking the scorpion by its sting and lifting it quickly onto your palm. They are social and can be kept together in captivity although some fighting is inevitable. They spend most of their time under rocks or in burrows .
Captive Environment:
Use a 5 to 10-gallon tank. Floor space is more important than height. Rainforest-type climate. Substrate should be damp reptile bark, shredded coconut husks or reptile soil mixes, about 3 to 6 inches deep. Change substrate often to prevent molds. Provide wood, logs and rocks for burrows and a place to hide but keep some of the ground clear.
Lighting:
UVB is not necessary in fact they prefer darker enclosures. Although they appear black, Under a fluorescent black light (which are purple) Emperor Scorpions will glow green! . Emperor Scorpions are nocturnal (active at night and sleep during the day). To view them at night use a red or night bulb.
Temperature:
Temperature should range between 77-86F. Under-tank heat pad required. Use a thermometer to ensure proper temperature range is maintained.
Food:
Feed once every 2 weeks or so. They eat invertebrates such as crickets, mealworms, large grubs, caterpillars and wax-moth larvae. Do not over feed, as this can be fatal.
Water:
Provide a shallow water bowl with easy access. Scorpions like to lean over the bowl to drink so make sure they can easily get out of the bowl should they fall in. Relative humidity of 70-80%. Mist daily to maintain humidity.
* Please note that ALL scorpions have a certain amount of venom. Although most people are not affected by this species, some people may be allergic to the venom, or just more sensitive, making it a dangerous situation. This is one of the reasons that people should not handle this scorpion. Affects of these scorpions' natural defenses may vary between people. All scorpions should be considered dangerous, so be careful, because you don't want to find out if you are allergic or more sensitive the HARD WAY!
NOTE: This care sheet is a general guide, to learn more about your pet consult a book about it. 