Opistophthalmus boehmi
| Opistophthalmus boehmi | |
|---|---|
 | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Kingdom: | Animalia |
| Phylum: | Arthropoda |
| Subphylum: | Chelicerata |
| Class: | Arachnida |
| Order: | Scorpiones |
| Family: | Scorpionidae |
| Genus: | Opistophthalmus |
| Species: | O. boehmi |
| Binomial name | |
| Opistophthalmus boehmi (Kraepelin, 1896) | |
Opistophthalmus boehmi is a small (around 5 centimeters / 1.97 inches) scorpion native to southern Africa. It is a burrowing scorpion which can create intricated tunnels and spend days buried at the bottom on its lair.
Captive care
Opistophthalmus boehmi can be housed in a small vivarium. A mixture of peat and sand should be used for substrate. The substrat should be humidified in order to stabilize it and permit burrowing, then dried before introducing the scorpion in the vivarium. No hide is necessary as this scorpion will dig its own burrow. A small cup of water should be provided to ensure an adequate level of humidity (60%-70%). Opistophthalmus boehmi does not require high temperatures and does best at 25°C-30°C (77°F-86°F). As with all scorpions, this species can be fed most types of small insects, although crickets remain the most common choice.
Behavior
This scorpion is quite nervous and can display defensively towards its keeper. It should not be kept communally, as fights and cannibalism are frequent. The toxicity of its venom is usually deemed to be low, though its sting can be quite painful. This scorpion makes a good pet for a beginner, though it spends most of its time in its burrow and is rarely seen.