Defining Characteristics:

• Similar to other Asian Forest Scorpions of the genus Heterometrus
• Large, jet black scorpions that are often fairly docile
• Like many species of scorpions with large claws, Heterometrus laoticus lacks powerful venom

Name: Heterometrus laoticus is commonly known as the Laotian Black Forest Scorpion. The word 'Heterometrus' has Greek origins that mean "other," "unlike," and "mother". This may be due to a long-standing theory that members of this genus can reproduce asexually, without fertilization. 

Recommended Enclosure Size & Set Up: Heterometrus laoticus is a tropical terrestrial species, meaning this animal will spend a lot of time underground and may need additional substrate to burrow. Surface area of the enclosure should be no less than 2 times the scorpion’s extended length in one direction and 3 times the diagonal leg span in the other.

The enclosure should be tall enough to accommodate 2 inches of substrate for scorplings and 4+ inches for adults. ABG mix, coco cradle, or Dig-It are good substrate options, but our Arachnid Team prefers ABG all the way! 

Temperature (°F):  This species thrives in the mid 70s to low 80s, so a temperature of 75° is ideal. Temperatures regularly dipping below 65 or spiking above 85 degrees should be avoided. A reliable thermometer is strongly recommended.

Humidity: These scorpions thrive in a humid environment, so the recommended ambient humidity should stay between 55% and 70%. This can be achieved by making sure the substrate is always at least lightly moistened. Depending on your location, you may need tools such as a humidifier to achieve this environment. 

The enclosure sides and décor should be spritzed lightly around twice a week to provide your animal droplets to drink from and keep humidity up, but do not spray your scorpion directly. A hygrometer is a great way to monitor the humidity for your animal and see any needed adjustments

Size: At the time of sale, this animal will be at least 1 inch. Females can grow to be up to 5 inches, and typically the males are a bit smaller.

We measure our scorpions from the mouth parts to the end of their extended “tail”.

Age: For this species, the average lifespan is 5 to 8 years, when provided an adequate environment. 

They are currently approximately 4 to 6 months old. 

Feeding: These scorpions are currently eating 2 to 4 - 1/4 inch crickets a week. There are a variety of appropriate prey items that you can offer, such as roaches, waxworms, black soldier fly larvae, hornworms, and silkworms.

We recommend that the prey items not be much longer than the scorpion's body is wide. Larvae are an exception, because larvae are harmless. They are very high in fat, though, so not the best staple diet. They are, however, a great weight gain supplement.

Consider feeding your prey items with our gutload formula to give your pet well rounded nutrition.

Sexing: Due to age, Heterometrus laoticus sold by Josh’s Frogs are sold as unsexed.

Color/Pattern: As babies, this species can be brown. As adults, they are a uniform shiny black with smooth, elongated pincers.

Social Behavior: Heterometrus laoticus can be a sociable animal. However, there needs to be a balance between members of this species for them to live together. They should all be close to the same size. There should also be a ratio of not less than two females per male. If any member of the group does not accept another, death will eventually follow. That being said, it is safest to keep this species alone.

Scorpion venom is not like tarantula venom—scorpion venom can provoke anaphylactic shock in those that are allergic to it. People who are allergic to bee venom are likely also allergic to scorpion venom.

Natural Range: Heterometrus laoticus can be found in the wild in Laos.