Emperor Scorpion Care

Emperor Scorpion

(Pandinus imperator)

The Emperor Scorpion is one of the largest scorpions in the world and a popular species in the pet trade due to its docile nature and impressive size. Native to the rainforests and savannas of West Africa, these glossy black arachnids are mostly terrestrial and prefer to burrow and hide under cover.

Lifespan:
5–8 years in captivity

Size:

Up to 8 inches

Temperament:

Generally calm and tolerant of handling, but they can pinch with strong claws. They rarely sting unless provoked.

Enclosure:

• Minimum Size: 10–20 gallon long tank for one adult

• Use a secure, escape-proof lid

• Provide plenty of hiding places (bark, cork rounds, or half logs)

• Deep substrate for burrowing is essential

Substrate:
4–6 inches of coconut fiber, organic topsoil, or a mix with sphagnum moss

Keep slightly moist but not wet

Spot clean regularly

Lighting & Temperature:

• Day Temp: 75–85°F

• Night Temp: 70–75°F

• Use a heat mat on the side or under part of the tank if needed

• Avoid bright lights—they prefer dim environments

• UVB not necessary

Humidity:

• Maintain 75–85% humidity

  Mist lightly once daily
  
  Provide a shallow water dish

Food:

• Insectivorous—feed crickets, dubia roaches, mealworms, and the occasional waxworm
  
  Juveniles: every 2–3 days

  Adults: every 4–7 days

  Remove uneaten prey within 24 hours

Handling:

• Use care—though usually docile, they can pinch or sting

• Use soft tongs or a container to transfer if needed

• Handling should be minimal to avoid stress
  

Under UV light, Emperor Scorpions glow a blue-green color due to compounds in their exoskeleton—a natural feature shared by most scorpion species!