Ulderici Emperor Scorpion

Looks how to spot one

exoskeleton

The body is shiny black with two large, granular pincers that are blackish-red, four pairs of legs, and a long, curved tail (metasoma) ending in a stinger. Behind the legs are comb-like pectines used to sense the terrain. The whole exoskeleton glows pastel green or blue under ultraviolet light.12

Personality what they are like

Emperor scorpions are generally timid and will flee rather than fight, but if cornered they may adopt a defensive posture with the stinger ready. They are social and can live peacefully in colonies of up to 15 individuals, though rare cannibalism has been noted. Their venom is mild, comparable to a bee sting, but allergic reactions are possible.21

Daily activity how busy a day looks

Nocturnal; they are inactive during the day and become active at night. They do not require special lighting, as they are comfortable in darkness.2

Home where they are happiest

A warm, humid terrarium is essential. Provide hiding places like pieces of bark or cork bark. The substrate should be kept moist but not wet. Emperor scorpions are forest species and require high humidity, not dry conditions. They need enough space to burrow and move. CITES protection means specimens must be legally obtained.1

Food basics what goes in the bowl

They are carnivorous, feeding mainly on insects such as crickets and termites. Adults may also take small rodents or lizards. Juveniles rely on their stinger to paralyse prey, while adults use their large claws to tear prey apart. Feed two to three adult crickets per week, preferably at night.21

Company who they like around

They are social and can be housed in small groups if space and food are sufficient. They are generally docile with each other, but cannibalism occasionally occurs. They should not be kept with other scorpion species or aggressive tank mates.23

The story where it all began

The emperor scorpion has been a popular pet for decades due to its large size, docile nature, and relatively simple care. It was once wild-collected so heavily for the pet trade that it became protected under CITES. Many specimens today are captive-bred. The species is well documented in both scientific literature and hobbyist guides.12

Recognised by the official bits

CITES

Listed under CITES to protect from over-collecting for the pet trade1

Popularity One of the most popular scorpion species in the pet trade worldwide1