Giant Forest Scorpion (Heterometrus sp.)
Pricing: Dead (spread, as pictured): $30-$100 depending on size.
Geographic Range: Malaysia & Thailand
View: Top & Side View
Size: Length: 20cm (body and tail)
Availability Notes: Heterometrus spinifer is the species usually available. Giant specimens are rare.
Heterometrus spinifer is a large, black scorpion native to Thailand and Malaysia. It is known in the pet trade as the Giant Forest Scorpion or the Asian Forest Scorpion (in addition to other regional names) and is often confused with other species of Heterometrus. As its common names imply, it can be found in moist forest habitat where it hides away by day under logs or rocks. It is often kept as a pet, although it cannot be handled without risk since it tends to be aggressive. Its sting is painful but not deadly to humans. While many deadly scorpions have venoms that selectively target neuronal ion channels - H. spinifer venom does not. H. spinifer is easy to keep in captivity. Temperature should be kept between 75 to 90 degrees F. with a high level of humidity. It feeds mainly on insects but will eat any small animal it can subdue. It should be provided with water in a shallow dish, so it can drink. This species should not be confused with the Emperor Scorpion.