Rainforest Scorpion

Peter scorpion, the adult body length is usually less than 15 centimeters, around 12cm. This species is similar to the African emperor scorpion and Malaysian rainforest scorpion. The difference between this species and the emperor scorpion is that the body is slender and streamlined, the surface of the chelae is slender and smooth, and there is almost no hair on the surface of the chelae. The difference between this species and the Malaysian rainforest scorpion is that the chelae are more slender, the body color is shiny black, and the venom sacs are red. The common difference between the emperor scorpion and the Malaysian rainforest scorpion is that the tip of the sting is black instead of red. In addition, there are quite significant differences in body size.

Peter scorpion, commonly known as Asian rainforest scorpion, while Heterometrus spinifer is Malaysian emperor rainforest, and the original scientific name Heterometrus longimanus has its own species.

Peter scorpion lives in Asian tropical rainforests such as Vietnam, Myanmar, and Laos. It feeds on insects and small lizards. It has a mild venom (all scorpions are venomous, although the toxicity is small and not lethal, allergic individuals should be cautious). It can be kept as a pet, but ventilation and a certain level of humidity should be maintained.

Not suitable for keeping as pets. Peter scorpion attacks by using its pincers to hold its prey and injecting venom with its poisonous needle. Although it is not lethal to humans, it is very effective against smaller prey.

1. Fungal Disease

  Fungal disease is a fungal disease. When the disease occurs, scorpions have yellow-brown mold spots on their chest, abdomen, and back, which spread and grow rapidly, forming lumps. Scorpions become restless after being infected. As the disease progresses, they become dull, motionless, have poor appetite or refuse to eat, and their growth stops. If not treated in time, it can be fatal.

  Prevention and treatment methods: First, control the temperature and humidity of the breeding environment to maintain the appropriate growth conditions for scorpions. In addition, pay attention to breeding density. Excessive breeding density can cause various diseases. Maintain good hygiene and disinfection, and ensure the freshness of feed when feeding, avoiding feeding spoiled or rotten feed. Isolate the infected scorpions in a timely manner to prevent transmission to healthy scorpions, causing unnecessary losses. Then, use 0.5 grams of tetracycline dissolved in 500ml of water to foam or spray the scorpions for treatment.

2. Black Rot Disease

  The main cause of black rot disease is the deterioration and decay of feed and contamination of drinking water. When the disease occurs, the scorpion's abdomen turns yellow, swells, moves inconveniently, has reduced activity, and has poor appetite. When seriously ill, the abdomen will develop black rotting ulcers and secrete black sticky fluid. The disease has a short course and a high mortality rate, and the scorpions die within a short period of time after the onset of the disease.

 Prevention and treatment methods: Ensure the cleanliness of feed and drinking water, regularly clean and disinfect the breeding utensils to prevent the pathogens from infecting the scorpions through this route. Clean up the dead scorpions in a timely manner and remove them from the breeding environment. Disinfect or replace the tiles and soil in the breeding site. Then, use 0.5 grams of oxytetracycline dissolved in 500ml of water for spraying or sucking.

3. Tail-dragging Disease

  As the name suggests, the tail of the scorpion hangs down on the ground when tail-dragging disease occurs. The cause of the disease is also due to feed and breeding environment. Long-term feeding of high-fat feed or excessively humid breeding environment can cause this disease. When the disease occurs, the scorpion is in low spirits, moves slowly, and the abdomen and tail droop. The limbs are swollen, and there is mucous secretion.

 Prevention and treatment methods: The key to preventing this disease is to reduce the fat content in the feed and adjust the temperature and humidity of the breeding environment. When the disease occurs, use 250g of rhubarb soda powder mixed with bran to feed the scorpions.

4. Mites

  Mites are a parasitic disease. They attach to the scorpions and constantly suck nutrients, reproduce in large numbers, and cause yellow-brown spots on the scorpion's legs, antennas, and abdomen. The scorpions have difficulty moving and eventually become thin and die.

 Prevention and treatment methods: Similarly, regulating temperature and humidity is important in preventing this disease. Good environmental hygiene is also crucial. When the disease occurs, use 250g of fresh Baibu, boil it in 2kg of water to make a concentrated solution, and spray it on the scorpions and their nests. Alternatively, use lime powder solution to spray on the scorpions or their nests, and add oxytetracycline to the feed until recovery.

Ideal breeding temperature should be between 25-30 degrees Celsius, with 28 degrees being optimal. Humidity should be maintained at around 75%. When the temperature drops too low during winter, the air in the breeding environment needs to be warmed. Inside the breeding box, it is best to provide a slightly dry and warm area with some coverings for the scorpions to rest.

Peter Scorpions are not very picky eaters and can accept any insects smaller than themselves, such as mealworms and crickets. Sometimes, they can also be fed with mice to supplement their nutrition, but this is not easy to digest, so it is recommended to feed them less or not at all. Scorpions have a small appetite during the nymph stage but feed more frequently, while adults have the opposite behavior. After feeding, the remaining food should be cleaned up promptly.

Peter Scorpions are not very active, but the breeding box should not be too small. It should be at least 5 times the size of the scorpions. To maintain humidity, it is recommended to use compost or coconut bricks as the substrate. Some beginners choose small gravel used for fish keeping. Both options have their pros and cons. Compost and coconut bricks have good water retention but need to be replaced regularly. Gravel is easier to manage and relatively clean, but it is more difficult to control moisture and humidity. Regardless of the chosen substrate, do not forget to place a small water dish and regularly spray water. The breeding box should not have too many decorations to avoid affecting the scorpions' hunting. All that is needed is a slightly shallow water bowl and a hiding place for them to seek refuge.