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Pandinus imperator
One of the world's largest scorpions. From West Africa. Black body fluoresces blue under UV light. Despite appearance, venom is mild and temperament docile. Popular exotic pet.
The emperor scorpion (Pandinus imperator) is one of the worlds largest scorpions, inhabiting the rainforests of West Africa. Its glossy black body fluoresces blue under UV light, and despite its appearance it has weak venom and a docile temperament, making it a widely kept exotic pet. Husbandry requires warm temperatures and high humidity, with substrate deep enough for burrowing and a shelter. Live prey such as crickets is the main diet, and clean water should always be available. Poor humidity management can cause health problems. Relatively easy to keep, it is a popular choice for first-time invertebrate keepers.
Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)
The Emperor Scorpion lives 6-8 years.
The Emperor Scorpion grows to 15-20cm.
The ideal temperature for the Emperor Scorpion is 24〜30℃. Ideal humidity is 70〜80%.
Origin
West Africa
Lifespan
6-8 years
Size
15-20cm
Temperature
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: Pandinus imperator (C.L.Koch, 1841)
Authority databases: GBIF
Nomenclature follows global taxonomic authority databases.
Pandinus imperator is CITES Appendix II (listed in 1995 at CoP9). Although it is a scorpion, its family is Scorpionidae, not Buthidae, which is designated as an invasive species in Japan.
Sources: CITES Emperor Scorpion gallery (Appendix II) / Ministry of the Environment: List of Designated Invasive Species
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
Find listings for this species
24〜30℃
Humidity
70〜80%
Crickets, mealworms, roaches
Medium plastic case. Coconut fiber substrate for humidity
Maintain 70-80%. Dryness causes molting problems
1-2 times per week. About 2-3 crickets
Mild venom but sting is painful. Avoid bare-hand handling
Intermediate. This is an intermediate-level species. Some prior experience and knowledge of environmental management are recommended.
The ideal temperature for Emperor Scorpion is 24〜30℃. Recommended humidity is 70〜80%. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
The average lifespan of Emperor Scorpion is 6-8 years. With proper care and nutrition, they can live a long and healthy life.
Emperor Scorpion typically reaches 15-20cm as an adult. Size may vary depending on care conditions and individual genetics.
Emperor Scorpion feeds on: Crickets, mealworms, roaches. Aim for a balanced diet with appropriate feeding frequency.
The price of Emperor Scorpion varies significantly depending on morph, size, and lineage. Check our market price page for the latest pricing information.
Last updated: June 24, 2026