Scorpions

Scorpions are a type of arachnid which falls under the order Scorpionida and there are around 2,000 species of scorpion found worldwide. Scorpions are often portrayed as scary creatures with big claws and a venomous sting, however most are timid and will shy away from confrontation. The scorpion body is divided into two sections, the head which comprises the eyes, mouth parts, claws and four pairs of legs. The second part is the scorpions’ tail which is comprised of six segments with the last containing the sting (telson) which holds a pair of venom glands and venom-injecting barb. You may occasionally see scorpions with two tails, this may look like it is an amazing new species but actually it is a simple genetic abnormality. Most scorpion venom is only as powerful as a bee or wasp sting, however there are around 25 species of scorpion which posses venom strong enough to pose a lethal risk to humans. A good indication of the strength of a particular scorpion’s venom is to compare claw and sting size. Big claws and small stings usually reflect a weak venom (the scorpion uses power to crush and kill prey) while small claws and a big sting usually mean it is a powerful venom as they lack the raw strength to bring down prey.

One interesting feature of adult scorpions is the way they glow under ultraviolet light which is caused by a fluorescent chemical in their cuticle. You could use this show off your scorpions at night. Sadly this chemical is not present in juveniles so you must wait until they mature to try it out.

Please carry on reading our scorpion caresheets to find out more information on keeping specific species as exotic pets.

Asian Forest Scorpion

Heterometrus spinifer