Emperor Scorpion

Emperor Scorpion
(Pandinus imperator)
by Jon Fouskaris

The Emperor Scorpion is a very large, impressive, and hardy scorpion from tropical Africa. It is also the one of the only species of scorpion that is known to be handled, yet, it is not recommended. The venom is used infrequently, and is in not harmful to humans. These scorpions are popular animals in scary movies, due to the factor that they can have close contact with actors. This is because most Emperor Scorpions are docile. They can be kept in groups of three or more, as long as they are provided with enough food, but that is not recommended. If you are choosing a scorpion, the Emperor Scorpion won't let you down.

Range Tropical rainforests of West Africa, mainly collected in Togo, and Ghana.
Habitat Found in burrows under rocks, and other debris.
Type Terrestial, but will burrow to some extent.
Diet Babies eat pinhead crickets, that have been crushed, or had the legs taken off them so that the scorpions can catch the food easily. Adults eat crickets, mealworms, woodlice, other large insects, and an occasional pinkie mouse.
Full Grown Size 5 to 7 inches.
Growth Medium speed.
Lifespan Medium.
Temperature 70 to 80 degrees F.
Humidity High. Two mistings per week. This species will drink from a shallow, wide water dish.
Temperament Docile to Semi-Aggressive.
Housing 5 to 10-gallon tank. Floor space is more important than height.
Substrate Damp potting soil, with moss, and maybe vermiculite, about 3 to 6 inches deep. Rocks should be added for burrowing, and a place to hide.
Other Names N/A.

*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 this 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!