Nebo whitei

Nebo whitei is a species of scorpion belonging to the family Diplocentridae, commonly found in parts of the Middle East, particularly Israel, Jordan, and surrounding regions. It is part of the genus Nebo, which includes some of the largest scorpions in the area. It has become popular due to it's unique colours.

HABITAT

🌍 Geographic Range:

Found in the Middle East, particularly in:

• Israel

• Jordan

• Neighboring arid regions

• Natural Habitat:

• Arid and semi-arid environments such as deserts and rocky terrains.

• Often found in burrows, under rocks, or in crevices.

It is restricted to the Dhofar region of Oman, whereas most other Nebo species are distributed more widely across the Middle East (Yemen, Saudi Arabia, Levant).

This limited, localized range makes N. whitei a biogeographically distinct member of the genus.

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🏡 Microhabitat Preferences:

Nebo whitei, is found in southern Oman, particularly in the Dhofar region around Salalah. Its natural environment is very arid, with desert-like conditions dominating the landscape. Within this habitat the scorpion makes use of burrows, rocky cracks, and crevices beneath boulders, which provide shelter and slightly more stable microclimates than the exposed surface.

Although it is a desert species, it favors microhabitats that retain some moisture and protection from extreme heat. Typical temperatures in its range are around 22 to 28 °C, with a relative humidity of about 50 to 60 percent.

PHYSICAL DESCRIPTION

📏Size:

Nebo whitei is a large scorpion compared to many other Middle Eastern species. Adults typically reach 9–12 cm (about 3.5–5 inches) in length, with some exceptional specimens reported slightly larger.

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🎨Coloration:

In terms of coloration, they are light brown, often with orange-ish chelae, yellowish legs , blending well with its desert habitat. The overall is a mix of browns and yellows.

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🔎Detail:

N. whitei is usually brighter in colour compared to others in it's genus.

CAPTIVE CARE

📏Enclosure Size:

Large terrestrial setup is required. A single adult needs at least a 30–40 litre (8–10 gallon) horizontal enclosure, with plenty of floor space for digging and roaming.

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🌡️Temperature:

Maintain 22–28 °C with a gentle gradient. Nighttime drops to around 22 °C are acceptable. Avoid prolonged exposure below 20 °C.

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💧Humidity:

Prefers low to moderate humidity (around 50–60%). Provide a localized humid retreat but keep the main enclosure arid.

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🌱Substrate:

Deep, compactable substrate for burrowing, around a few inches of a sand/clay mix or excavator clay blended with soil. Needs to hold stable burrows.

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⏰Feeding schedule:

Feed every 2 weeks. Offer appropriately sized prey such as crickets, roaches, or locusts. Adults may skip meals, so remove uneaten prey after 24 hours.

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🥣Water Source:

Provide a shallow water dish with fresh water, as this species is large enough to drink safely. Keep one corner of the substrate slightly damp.

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🍃Ventilation

Good cross-ventilation is necessary to prevent mold in an arid setup. A mesh or ventilated lid works well, but avoid excessive airflow that would desiccate the burrow zone.

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🙈Hides:

Essential to provide deep substrate for burrow construction. Flat rocks, slate pieces, or artificial caves can also be added to simulate natural rocky crevices.

VENOM

💉 The venom of Nebo whitei has not been studied in much detail compared to more medically important scorpions. Available information suggests that it is not considered dangerous to humans, and stings are usually described as painful but without serious systemic effects. Like other members of the family Diplocentridae, its venom is primarily adapted for subduing prey such as insects and small invertebrates rather than for strong defense against large vertebrates.

Reports from keepers and collectors in Oman describe local pain, mild swelling, or redness after a sting, but no life-threatening reactions. There are no medical case reports linking Nebo whitei envenomation to severe outcomes. Thus, the venom is best regarded as mildly toxic, effective for immobilizing prey but of low medical significance to humans.

STATS

LATIN NAME:

• Nebo whitei

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COMMON NAME:

• White's nebo scorpion

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TEMPERATURE

• 24°- 28°

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TEMPERAMENT:

• Defensive

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HUMIDITY:

• 50%

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COMMUNAL:

• 2/5

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SIZE:

• Up to 12cm

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ECOLOGY:

• Terrestrial

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SUBSTRATE:

• Sand

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ORIGIN:

• Oman, Egypt

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