Not recommended for keeping, the black claw scorpion is native to dry deserts in North Africa. It measures 10 to 13 centimeters in length when fully grown and has a fierce and nervous temperament, easily influenced by external factors. When disturbed, its actions become faster and more aggressive than usual, and its venom becomes more lethal. Therefore, it is strongly advised against keeping it for beginners or young friends.
First, black rot. The diseased scorpion has a black abdomen and excretes green sewage, and death occurs one after another. In the prevention process, parents need to keep the scorpion nest dry, and water and food sources should be kept fresh. The insects that are usually placed should be healthy and harmless, and the diseased scorpions should be isolated for treatment.
Second, tail withering disease. In the early stage of the disease, the end of the tail segment of the scorpion appears yellow and withered, and then extends to the abdomen. In severe cases, the white intestine can be seen in the deep part of the tail, and the disease scorpion begins to die when the base of the tail appears dry and withered. In the prevention and treatment, it is necessary to pay attention to keeping the drinking water clean, adjusting the moisture content of the feed, keeping the activity area humid, appropriately adding water supply equipment, and maintaining normal air humidity.
Third, mite disease. The diseased scorpions will show extreme restlessness in the early stage, with a significant increase in activity, and a decrease in activity and no food or drink in the later stage. The reproductive organs of adult scorpions begin to be eaten by mites. In prevention, parents should ensure that the feed and drinking water are fresh, and remove the remaining feed in a timely manner. Usually, the scorpion nest should be regularly replaced and sun-dried to maintain the appropriate humidity. The sand used in the pool should be used after being exposed to the sun.
Finally, abdominal distension disease also needs to be prevented. This disease often occurs in early spring when the temperature is low and the environment is humid. The diseased scorpions become sluggish, their appetite decreases, and their bellies become swollen and milky white. They may die a few hours after the onset of the disease. In the prevention, parents should keep the environment dry and pay attention to insulation. Parents can control the ambient temperature to above 20 degrees, allowing the scorpions to gradually alleviate.
Keeping desert species like the black claw scorpion (Opisthacanthus rugiceps) is easy to adapt to large temperature changes. Therefore, their optimal temperature during the day is around 25-32°C, and at night, the temperature should be maintained above 20°C. If they live for too long in temperatures that are too low (15 degrees Celsius), it will not only affect their growth rate, but also cause them to stop feeding or even die. During winter low temperatures, it is necessary for the owner to provide insulation for them. In terms of humidity, it is best to maintain the humidity in the terrarium at around 55-65%, and the substrate can be moistened by using a spray bottle to keep it slightly damp. However, inside the terrarium, a dry and warm place should be provided for them to rest. Mainly live insects should be provided as food, such as crickets and mealworms, and even small reptiles or mice can be fed to adult scorpions. The black claw scorpion has a good appetite, but it is important to avoid overfeeding and the problems it may cause. Feeding once or twice a week is sufficient, and any leftover residue should be cleaned up as soon as possible.
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