Sonoran Tiger

Scolopendra polymorpha

CentipedebeginnerVenom: Moderate

Venom note

Sting causes intense localized pain, swelling, occasional lymph-node response. Documented cases of nausea and elevated heart rate, but no fatalities in healthy adults. Notably less severe than the larger Scolopendra in this seed.

About

Sonoran Tiger — the most commonly kept Scolopendra in the US trade. Striking dark body with bright orange-red legs and head. Highly variable in color, hence the species epithet 'polymorpha.' Hardy if given a humidity gradient — damp burrowing layer with a drier surface. Cohabits with no one. Sting is no joke but recoverable; this is the tier where keepers learn to respect the tool.

Taxonomy

FamilyScolopendridae

GenusScolopendra

Native regionSouthwestern US, northern Mexico

TypeFossorial

Temperamentdefensive

Size & growth

Adult size5-7 inches

Length120.00–180.00 mm

Growth ratemedium

Climate

Temperature72–85 °F

Humidity50–70%

Enclosure

Juvenile size5x5x4"

Adult size12x8x6" with 4-5" substrate

SubstrateCoco fiber + sand mix, damp on one side and drier on the other

Substrate depth4-5 inches

Water dishRequired

Feeding

Feeding modePredator (live prey)

Prey sizeCrickets, roaches, occasional pinkie for adults

Juvenile cadenceTwice per week

Adult cadenceOnce every 1-2 weeks

Times kept: 1