Gigantometrus swammerdami

Gigantometrus swammerdami (formerly Heterometrus swammerdami) is a giant forest scorpion in the family Scorpionidae. It is endemic to India, particularly in the Western Ghats and adjoining southern states, and is sometimes reported from nearby Sri Lanka. It is notable as the largest living scorpion, reaching about 23 cm in length.

PHYSICAL DESCRIPTION

📏Size:

Gigantometrus swammerdami is recognized as the largest scorpion in the world. Adults typically reach a body length of up to about 20cm, with some exceptional individuals reported slightly longer. Despite their size, they are not among the heaviest scorpions, as much of their length comes from the extended metasoma (the tail).

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🎨Coloration:

In terms of colour, they are usually dark brown to black, sometimes appearing with a slight reddish or mahogany tint under certain lighting. The legs and chelae are generally the same dark shade as the body.

CAPTIVE CARE

📏Enclosure Size:

A minimum terrarium of 30x30x20 is sufficient for a single G. swammerdami adult.

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🌡️Temperature:

24–30 °C

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💧Humidity:

75–90%.

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🌱Substrate:

Deep, moist soil for burrowing. _______________________________________

⏰Feeding schedule:

Once a week

VENOM

💉Gigantometrus swammerdami, also known as the giant forest scorpion, belongs to the family Scorpionidae. Members of this family generally have less potent venom compared to the more dangerous scorpions in the Buthidae family.

For humans, the venom is not considered lethal. A sting typically results in localized pain and possibly swelling, but serious medical complications are uncommon. There is no well-documented LD₅₀ value for this species, and detailed studies on the venom’s composition and effects are scarce. Because of this, the precise potency is not fully understood, but it is widely regarded as being on the mild end of the spectrum.

That said, reactions can vary depending on the individual. Someone with allergies or certain health conditions may experience stronger effects, so medical attention is recommended if severe pain, swelling, or systemic symptoms occur after a stin

STATS

LATIN NAME:

• Gigantometrus swammerdami

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COMMON NAME:

• Giant Indian Forest Scorpion

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TEMPERATURE:

• 25°- 30°

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TEMPERAMENT:

• May pinch

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HUMIDITY:

• 80%

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COMMUNAL:

• 3/5

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SIZE:

• Up to 17cm

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ECOLOGY:

• Terrestrial

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SUBSTRATE:

• Soil that retains water

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ORIGIN:

• Southern India

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