Asian Forest Scorpion

Heterometrus petersii

ScorpionbeginnerVenom: MildCommunal OK

Venom note

Mild venom (bee-sting class); prefers to threaten with raised claws.

About

The classic pet 'Asian forest scorpion' and the most common in stores — big, hardy, mild-venomed, and more inclined to a claws-up threat display than a sting. A good beginner scorpion. Keep warm and humid (70-80%) with damp deep substrate to burrow and a water dish; tolerates communal setups with space. Glows under UV like all scorpions.

Taxonomy

FamilyScorpionidae

GenusHeterometrus

Native regionSoutheast Asia

TypeFossorial

Temperamentdefensive display over stinging; docile-ish

Size & growth

Adult size4-5 inches

Length100.00–130.00 mm

Growth rateslow

Climate

Temperature75–85 °F

Humidity70–80%

Enclosure

Adult size10-20 gal; deep substrate or rock stacks per type

Substratedeep moist coco/peat for burrowing; bark hides; water dish

Substrate depth3-6 inches

Water dishRequired

Feeding

Feeding modePredator (live prey)

Prey sizecrickets, roaches

Adult cadence1 prey every 1-2 weeks

Times kept: 1