Flat Rock Scorpion

Looks how to spot one

Exoskeleton

The body, including the carapace, pincers and tail, is noticeably flattened from top to bottom. This shape helps the scorpion slip into narrow rock crevices. The tail is held to the side rather than curled up like many other scorpions. The pincers are large and powerful, and the legs have stiff bristles for gripping rough stone.25

Personality what they are like

Shy and reclusive. It prefers to flee or hide rather than fight. It will only sting as a last resort, relying on its strong pincers for defence. The venom is mild and not considered dangerous to humans, though individual sensitivity varies. It is not aggressive toward people.254

Daily activity how busy a day looks

Nocturnal. It hunts at night and spends the day hidden in crevices. In captivity it needs plenty of hiding places and a day/night cycle. It does not require exercise beyond its natural movements.23

Grooming and care the hands-on bits

Very low maintenance. The enclosure should be spot-cleaned of uneaten food and waste. A shallow water dish (e.g. a bottle cap) can be provided, or the enclosure lightly misted twice a week in the evening. No bathing or grooming is needed.5

Home where they are happiest

A 5.5 to 10 gallon terrarium with a tight-fitting lid. Substrate: a mix of coconut coir and sand or cactus potting soil, kept mostly dry with one slightly moist area under a flat rock. Provide several flat rocks and pieces of cork bark for hiding. Temperature: 24-28°C (76-82°F) during the day, dropping a few degrees at night. Humidity: 40-60%. A heat mat on a thermostat can be used. This species is not communal and must be housed alone.54

Food basics what goes in the bowl

Insectivorous. In captivity it eats crickets, roaches and kingworms (superworms). Adults need 2-3 appropriately sized insects once or twice a week. In the wild it also preys on terrestrial molluscs.516

Company who they like around

Solitary. It is highly territorial and will fight to the death with other Flat Rock Scorpions if kept together. Cannibalism can occur. It does not get lonely and must be housed alone.24

The story where it all began

The Flat Rock Scorpion has been a popular exotic pet for many years, valued for its large size, mild venom and long lifespan. It was once thought to be the longest scorpion in the world, though that record now belongs to another species. It is commonly sold in the pet trade, though some specimens sold as a different species (Hadogenes bicolor) may actually be this one. Its natural habitat in southern Africa is threatened by mining.21