
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Typopeltis stimpsonii
A whip scorpion of southern Kyushu and the Amami Islands, the only one that reaches the Japanese mainland. About 4cm long and almost entirely black, with reddish legs and flagellum. When provoked it sprays a strongly vinegary fluid from its anal glands.
Typopeltis stimpsonii is a thelyphonid whip scorpion and the only member of the group that also occurs on the Japanese mainland, ranging from southern Kyushu to the Amami Islands with its southern limit at Izena Island. The body is about 4cm long and the prosoma is covered by a single undivided carapace. The pedipalps are heavily built and end in pincers, while the first pair of legs is long and slender and held forward like antennae rather than used for walking. The colour is essentially black, with reddish legs and flagellum. The species is nocturnal and hides by day under stones and fallen logs. Lifted from its retreat it spreads its pedipalps and raises abdomen and flagellum in a threat posture, and if pressed further sprays a fluid of 80% acetic acid, 5% caprylic acid and 15% water from its anal glands. The spray reaches 20cm, stings on skin and causes severe pain in the eyes. It is carnivorous, taking insects and spiders, and unlike scorpions it needs feeding every day; animals left unfed for a day or two have turned cannibalistic, so it must be housed alone.
Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)
The Amami Whip Scorpion lives 5-7 years.
The Amami Whip Scorpion grows to Body about 4cm, with a flagellum longer than the body.
The ideal temperature for the Amami Whip Scorpion is 22〜26℃. Ideal humidity is 75〜90%.
Origin
Japan (southern Kyushu to the Amami Islands, southern limit at Izena Island)
Sources: Japanese Wikipedia: Typopeltis stimpsonii / Insektenliebe: Typopeltis spec. Java (congeneric husbandry reference) / GBIF
Edited & verified by: BreederDirect editorial team
The taxonomic, regulatory, and husbandry data on this page are compiled and verified against the authoritative primary sources below.
Accepted name: Typopeltis stimpsonii (Wood, 1862)
Synonyms: Thelyphonus stimpsonii Wood, 1862
Authority databases: GBIF
Nomenclature follows global taxonomic authority databases.
Sources: CITES Appendices (species not listed)
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
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Lifespan
5-7 years
Size
Body about 4cm, with a flagellum longer than the body
Temperature
22〜26℃
Humidity
75〜90%
Insects and spiders such as crickets, flies and red runner roaches
No source gives figures for this species; the values follow published practice for the congeneric Typopeltis sp. from Java, 22-26 C and 75-90%. As it occurs naturally in southern Kyushu, high temperatures are not required.
A deep bed of damp humus-rich substrate with stone or bark hides. Dark retreats for daytime are essential.
It hunts insects and spiders. Unlike scorpions it has a large appetite and needs feeding almost daily.
It has no venom glands but sprays a fluid of 80% acetic acid, 5% caprylic acid and 15% water up to 20cm from its anal glands. It stings on skin and causes severe pain in the eyes, so never work with your face close.
Cannibalism is frequent in captivity, so house singly. The species is native to Japan and collection may be restricted in protected areas. This species was formerly regarded as conspecific with the Taiwan whip scorpion (Typopeltis crucifer) of Okinawa, and specimens offered without locality data cannot be told apart. They are separate species with different native ranges, so check both locality and scientific name.
Intermediate. This is an intermediate-level species. Some prior experience and knowledge of environmental management are recommended.
The ideal temperature for Amami Whip Scorpion is 22〜26℃. Recommended humidity is 75〜90%. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
The average lifespan of Amami Whip Scorpion is 5-7 years. With proper care and nutrition, they can live a long and healthy life.
Amami Whip Scorpion typically reaches Body about 4cm, with a flagellum longer than the body as an adult. Size may vary depending on care conditions and individual genetics.
Amami Whip Scorpion feeds on: Insects and spiders such as crickets, flies and red runner roaches. Aim for a balanced diet with appropriate feeding frequency.
The price of Amami Whip Scorpion varies significantly depending on morph, size, and lineage. Check our market price page for the latest pricing information.
Last updated: September 17, 2026