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Giant Forest Scorpion

Heterometrus swammerdami

HeterometrusScorpionidae

intermediate

Overview

The largest scorpion in the world, reaching ~9 inches — and, for its size, fairly docile, since it kills by crushing with huge pincers rather than venom. Keep warm (75-85°F), humid (70-80%), with deep moist substrate to burrow and a water dish. Avid digger. Recently reclassified as Gigantometrus swammerdami. Venom is mild but a sting still causes painful swelling — best left unhandled.

Husbandry Requirements

Temperature & Humidity

Temperature

75-85°F

Humidity

70-80%

Enclosure Sizes

Adult:10-20 gal; deep substrate or rock stacks per type

Substrate

Type:deep moist coco/soil for burrowing; bark hides; water dish
Depth:3-6 inches

Feeding Schedule

Adult:1 prey every 1-2 weeks

Prey size: crickets, roaches

Quick Stats

Type

fossorial

Adult Size

up to 9 inches

Growth Rate

slow

Native Region

India, Sri Lanka

Temperament

docile for its size; best not handled

Behavior

Webbing
BurrowingYes
Water DishRequired

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