Available animals

Scorpions

Olivierus caucasicus

Previously Mesobuthus. A small to medium sized scorpion (females about 6 cm, males smaller). It is more of a steppe species than a desert one; humidity should be around 50%. This scorpion drinks readily and regularly, so I spray one corner of the terrarium once a week. This species was one of my first, so I’m quite sentimental about it. It’s a great choice for those who like arid-habitat scorpions but have limited space due to its size.

It requires a higher temperature, around 32°C, to molt at a reasonably fast rate. Adult individuals can be kept at a lower temperature of 26–28°C (scorpions will be less active). With the proper conditions this scorpion is very active; the substrate should be a mix of sand, clay, and coconut fiber in a 60–20–20 ratio. For juveniles, sand alone is sufficient, while adults love to dig so substrate gotta be more complex.

Scorpions

Tityus smithii

A species that tolerates being kept in groups very well, BUT if you don’t want the colony to grow too much, keep females separated from males. In this case, a group does not mean a harem—multiple females kept together do not show aggression. This species grows quickly and requires a temperature of about 25–30°C and humidity levels of 60–85%. They are very reluctant to sting, but be careful — this is one of the most venomous genus of scorpions. Tityus smithii is one of the less potent species within the genus, but its venom is still serious and can send you to the hospital.

Scorpions

Centruroides edwardsii

A medium-sized scorpion originating from Central America. It shows strong sexual dimorphism (males are more slender and have longer tails). It requires temperatures in the range of 25–30°C and humidity around 70%.

Edwardsii is closely related to Centruroides margaritatus, there are some details that can tell if it’s edwardsii: more hairy pedipalps, less slender body, has more granulated carinae of its tail segments and a subaculear tubercle positioned closer from the aculeus (tip).

It is fairly venomous, but not dangerous, and prefers to flee rather than attack. It is not suitable for group housing due to strong cannibalistic tendencies.

Scorpions

Javanimetrus cyaneus

This is a large Asian scorpion with a robust build and a calm temperament. It grows to about 12–15 cm in length. It prefers a humid environment (70–80%) and temperatures in the range of 24–28°C. The species has relatively mild venom and is recommended for beginner keepers. It may show a tendency to burrow, so it’s important to provide sufficiently deep, moist substrate.

I won’t sugarcoat it — like most Asian forest species, it can disappear underground for weeks at a time. Nevertheless, it’s a classic that every enthusiast should have. It is less common than H. silenus and H. spinifer, which are often found at terrarium expos. “Cyaneus” is from the colour this species has, it’s quite different from Heterometruses.

Scorpions

Pandinurus exitialis

Pandinurus exitialis is a large, robust scorpion native to East Africa. It grows to about 12–15 cm in length and is known for its calm temperament. It prefers higher temperatures (25–30°C) and moderate humidity (60–70%), slightly lower than that required by Heterometrus species. It has relatively mild venom and is recommended for beginners, although its size means it needs a suitably spacious enclosure with a deeper substrate for burrowing.

That said, mine don’t burrow at all — they usually hang out right next to the heat source, whether it’s a heat mat or cable. Real little heat lovers.

Personally, it’s one of my favorite species. Simply a must-have!

Scorpions

Pandinus imperator

Waiting for the birth!

Commonly known as the emperor scorpion, it is an absolute classic and a dream species for many keepers. It prefers slightly higher temperatures than Heterometrus species. This scorpion is listed under CITES, so legal possession requires proof of captive breeding (which you will receive from me).

As for the species itself, Pandinus has relatively mild venom but can be quite “restless” or defensive (at least the individuals I keep!).

Personally, it’s one of my favorite species too. Simply a must-have!