Source: Wikimedia Commons
Dune Scorpion
IntermediateSmeringurus mesaensis
A pale scorpion about 7cm long, common in the deserts of the southwestern United States. It is strongly nocturnal, most active between 9 p.m. and 3 a.m., and lives a solitary, burrowing life.
Difficulty
Intermediate
Lifespan
4-6 years
Size
About 7.2cm in length
Diet
Live insects such as crickets
About
The dune scorpion (Smeringurus mesaensis), also called the giant sand scorpion, is a vaejovid scorpion common in the deserts of the southwestern United States. It is fossorial and solitary, though the young aggregate briefly after dispersing from their mother. Females are typically larger than males, and males travel to find females during the mating season. The species is strongly nocturnal, active between 9 p.m. and 3 a.m., which accounts for its daytime invisibility. GBIF records are dominated by the United States and extend into Mexico. In captivity it needs dry, sandy substrate and somewhere to bury itself during the day.
Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Lifespan of the Dune Scorpion
The Dune Scorpion lives 4-6 years.
Size of the Dune Scorpion
The Dune Scorpion grows to About 7.2cm in length.
It is about 7.2 cm long and weighs some 2 g, with pale colouring that blends into sand.
Basic Info
Origin
Deserts of the southwestern United States (United States, Mexico)
Lifespan
4-6 years
Size
About 7.2cm in length
Diet
Live insects such as crickets
Care Specifications
Solitary
Sources: Wikipedia: Smeringurus mesaensis / GBIF Smeringurus mesaensis
References & Sources
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.
Taxonomy & Authority
Accepted name: Smeringurus mesaensis (Stahnke, 1957)
Authority databases: GBIF
Nomenclature follows global taxonomic authority databases.
Regulations & Conservation Status
Not CITES-listed
Sources: CITES Appendices (species not listed)
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
Dune Scorpion Listings
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