Amami Whip Scorpion

Amami Whip Scorpion key facts

Care level

Intermediate

Lifespan

5-7 years

Size

Body about 4cm, with a flagellum longer than the body

Temperature

22〜26℃

Humidity

75〜90%

Diet

Insects and spiders such as crickets, flies and red runner roaches

Temperature & Humidity

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.

Enclosure

A deep bed of damp humus-rich substrate with stone or bark hides. Dark retreats for daytime are essential.

Diet & Feeding

It hunts insects and spiders. Unlike scorpions it has a large appetite and needs feeding almost daily.

Temperament & Venom

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.

Notes

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.

About Amami Whip Scorpion

Care guide for the Amami whip scorpion, Japan's only native whip scorpion. Found in Kyushu and the Amami Islands, it reaches about 4 cm with reddish legs and a long whip-like tail, and sprays a vinegar-like scent when threatened.

7 things to know before welcoming a Amami Whip Scorpion

1. 1Best for Intermediate Keepers

   The Amami whip scorpion is generally considered a species for intermediate keepers. Beyond basic temperature and humidity control and hide placement, keepers need to understand how to handle its defensive spray, which differs from the care other arachnids and beetles require.

2. 2No Sting — Just a Spray

   Unlike true scorpions, it has no venomous sting, and its pincers deliver only a light pinch, so it isn't particularly aggressive. That said, when startled it can spray a strong, vinegar-like liquid from glands near the base of its tail, so it's best handled calmly and without sudden movements.

3. 3A Hideout-Centered Setup

   During the day these whip scorpions tend to stay tucked away in hides, so a fairly deep substrate layer along with cork bark or driftwood hides will help it feel secure. Having a reliable hiding spot makes it much more settled in captivity.

4. 4Keep Humidity on the Higher Side

   Since the species is native to the warm, humid Amami islands, its enclosure should maintain a reasonably high humidity level. Avoid letting the substrate dry out completely, and mist periodically to keep moisture in an appropriate range.

5. 5Nocturnal and Quiet by Day

   As a nocturnal animal, it's often motionless and out of sight during the day — that doesn't mean anything is wrong. Observing it at night is the best way to see it walking on its long legs or investigating for food.

6. 6A Tail Longer Than Its Body

   Body length is only around 4 cm, but the whip-like tail extends well beyond that. This tail functions as a sensory organ used to feel out its surroundings, so it shouldn't be touched or pulled.

7. 7Prep Your Setup Before Arrival

   Have the enclosure, substrate, hides, and temperature/humidity equipment ready before bringing your whip scorpion home. Right after transport it can be more sensitive to change, so give it a quiet space to settle in first.

Frequently asked questions about Amami Whip Scorpion

Q.Is it venomous? Is a bite dangerous?

A.The Amami whip scorpion has no venomous sting, and its pincers deliver only a light pinch, so it isn't particularly aggressive. That said, if startled it can spray a strong, vinegar-like liquid from glands near its tail, so it's best to handle it calmly rather than suddenly.

Q.Is this species suitable for beginners?

A.According to our species data, it's generally considered suitable for intermediate keepers. You'll want a handle on humidity and temperature control as well as how to respond to its defensive spray, so some prior keeping experience or thorough research beforehand is recommended.

Q.How large does it get?

A.Adults reach a body length of about 4 cm. Because the whip-like tail extends well beyond the body itself, it can look noticeably larger in person.

Q.I heard it sprays a smell — does it smell all the time?

A.It doesn't give off an odor under normal conditions. The vinegar-like spray from its tail glands is a defensive reaction triggered only when it feels threatened or is handled roughly, so it isn't something that happens often with careful, gentle care.

Q.Is it regulated under CITES?

A.The Amami whip scorpion is not subject to CITES.

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