This week I had a special request (winks to Darlene) to profile something a little different... this week I will stray away from the tarantulas and introduce you all to the world of scorpions!
Species: Pandinus Imperator
Common Names: Emperor Scorpion, African Black scorpion
Hails from: Togo and surrounding areas
General Description:
This is easily the most frequently owned and seen species of scorpion. It is the easiest to keep in captivity and is one of the most docile of all scorpions.
These shiny, black, armored tanks are also one of the largest species of scorpion... I have seen and heard of unofficial reports that some specimens have reached 12 inches from claws to tail.
This is a commonly seen species in movies and TV because of how docile they tend to be... actors can work closely with them safely. Its been my experience that they prefer to pinch with their lobster-like claws rather than sting (the venom is actually quite weak on these guys... one of the least toxic on the LD50 chart)
They give birth to live young. Being that it is almost exclusively WC specimens in pet stores, there stands a good chance of females being gravid (pregnant). In fact... there often stands a good chance of it! Here is why...
Emperor scorpions are one species that can be kept communally (meaning more than one specimen in a cage) What often happens is that they are packed up in a box with several specimens together. Its a long trip to Canada from Africa so if even one of the specimens is a male... one thing leads to another and he gets the job done in the box.
Housing:
This is a fairly large species of terrestrial scorpion, so its best to provide them with a lot of floor space. I keep mine in a large area Kritter keeper (it measures about 12x24 and is about 8 inches deep) A substrate of peat moss with potting soil is ideal... I sprinkle repti-bark on the top for esthetic purposes. This is one species of scorpion that loves high humidity but has shown a high tolerance for deviations. Babies require 80 to 100% humidity but adults have thrived from 60 to 80 (with 80 being ideal) A temperature from room temp anywhere to 90 degrees also suits them well.
This is a burrowing species, but they gladly accept any hiding spaces you provide them with. I like to try and simulate what would be found in nature (ie, a piece of bark or log for them to crawl under)
As stated earlier, this species can be kept communally provided there is plenty of food made available and lots of hiding spaces are provided (fights often break out over food and hiding spots though so pay attention)
Feeding: I fed mine crickets twice a week with a pinky mouse every now and then for variety.
Personal Notes:
-The only species of scorpion I have handled (on purpose) Have only been pinched a couple of times and never stung... males seem to be a little more aggressive than females
-Have successfully bred these... my female had a clutch of 23 babies all of which survived (sorry none left
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As always... feel free to toss in any personal experience or photos!!
Until next week Folks
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