
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Javanimetrus cyaneus
A large scorpion whose black body carries blue metallic reflections. It reaches 12-15cm and the strongly granulated cuticle has a rough texture. Stings cause moderate to severe pain, so it is classed as harmful.
Javanimetrus cyaneus occurs in Borneo, the Philippines and Indonesia, where it is found under stones and fallen trees in tropical rainforest and wetland forest. It reaches 12-15 cm in total length. The body is deep black with blue reflections that catch the light, the source of the English name Asian blue forest scorpion, and the cuticle is strongly granulated. Described by C. L. Koch in 1836 and long treated as Heterometrus cyaneus, it was moved to the genus Javanimetrus in the 2020 revision by Prendini and Loria. The species is classified as harmful because its sting causes moderate to severe pain, although no further consequences are reported. Its requirements are essentially those of Heterometrus: warm, humid conditions and substrate deep enough to burrow into. It is nocturnal and stays in cover by day.
Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)
The Javan Blue Forest Scorpion lives 4-6 years.
The Javan Blue Forest Scorpion grows to 12-15cm in total length.
Origin
Borneo, the Philippines and Indonesia
Lifespan
4-6 years
Size
12-15cm in total length
Humidity
80%
Sources: Exotic-pets.eu: Heterometrus spp. as beginner scorpions (Internet Archive) / Wikipedia / Wikipedia: Heterometrus (genus) / 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: Javanimetrus cyaneus (C. L. Koch, 1836)
Synonyms: Heterometrus cyaneus (C. L. Koch, 1836)
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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Live insects such as crickets
Create a gradient with a warm end around 30 C and the other end at room temperature. Aim for 80% or more humidity by limiting ventilation and misting daily.
Use deep coco fibre or peat with stone or cork hides and a shallow water dish they cannot drown in. Fix the heat mat to the side.
Offer live prey such as crickets once a week, one or two per scorpion, and remove any that are still uneaten the next day.
Stings cause moderate to severe pain and the species is classed as harmful. No further systemic effects are reported, but handling should be avoided.
It resembles related species and is often traded under the old name Heterometrus cyaneus. A different name does not change the husbandry.
Intermediate. This is an intermediate-level species. Some prior experience and knowledge of environmental management are recommended.
The average lifespan of Javan Blue Forest Scorpion is 4-6 years. With proper care and nutrition, they can live a long and healthy life.
Javan Blue Forest Scorpion typically reaches 12-15cm in total length as an adult. Size may vary depending on care conditions and individual genetics.
Javan Blue Forest Scorpion feeds on: Live insects such as crickets. Aim for a balanced diet with appropriate feeding frequency.
The price of Javan Blue Forest Scorpion varies significantly depending on morph, size, and lineage. Check our market price page for the latest pricing information.
Last updated: September 17, 2026