Phylum
Arthropoda
Family
Scorpionidae
Class
Arachnida
Genus
Pandinus
Order
Scorpiones
Conservation Status
Not Evaluated
Size
13-20 cm, 30-60 g
Coloration
Shiny black; large pincers
Adaptations
Venomous sting; nocturnal hunter
Habitat
Forests, savannas, burrows
Diet
Carnivorous
Insects, small vertebrates
Geographic Range
West Africa
Reproduction
10-30 live young; carried on mother's back
Threats
Pet trade, habitat loss
Interesting Facts
Gentle Giants: Despite their size (one of the largest scorpions) emperor scorpions wield mild venom, relying more on massive pincers to crush prey like beetles or lizards. This restraint makes them less deadly than their fearsome look suggests.
Glowing Secrets: Under UV light, they fluoresce a vivid blue-green due to proteins in their exoskeleton, a trait whose purpose baffles scientists, possibly aiding night hunting. This eerie glow has made them stars in both nature and captivity.
Best Places to Sight
Pendjari National Park, Benin
Mole National Park, Ghana
Comoé National Park, Côte d'Ivoire