Asian Forest Scorpion

Heterometrus silenus Care Guide

The Asian Forest Scorpion

Revision Date: March 2025

Introduction

Heterometrus silenus, also known as the Asian Forest Scorpion or Malaysian Black Scorpion, is a fascinating and popular terrestrial scorpion that is perfect for keepers looking to expand into scorpion keeping. Native to the tropical forests of India, Malaysia, and Indonesia, this species is known for its impressive size, glossy black coloration, and burrowing behaviors.

Quick Species Snapshot

• Scientific Name: Heterometrus silenus

• Common Names: Asian Forest Scorpion, Malaysian Black Scorpion

• Type: Terrestrial (Burrowing)

• Category: Tropical

• Native Range: India, Malaysia, Indonesia

• Size: Up to 6 inches (15 cm)

• Growth Rate: Medium

• Life Expectancy: Females 7–8 years; Males ~5 years

• Experience Level: Beginner to Intermediate

• Venom Potency: Low (not medically significant unless allergic)

Behavior & Temperament

Heterometrus silenus typically exhibits a reclusive and secretive nature, spending daylight hours hidden in deep burrows and emerging at night to explore or hunt. They're not aggressive but can be quite defensive, readily using their powerful pincers or even stinging if severely provoked. Their venom, while mild and not medically significant for most people, can cause pain and discomfort. Handling is generally not recommended, primarily due to their defensive tendencies and risk of stress or injury.

Interestingly, Asian Forest Scorpions are frequently confused with Emperor Scorpions (Pandinus imperator) due to their similar appearance. However, you can easily distinguish them by examining their telson (stinger); Asian Forest Scorpions have a completely black telson, whereas Emperor Scorpions have a distinct amber-colored telson.

Etymology & Taxonomy

The genus name "Heterometrus" originates from the Greek words “hetero-” meaning "different" and "metron," meaning "measure," referring to variations in claw and appendage sizes among species in this genus. The species epithet "silenus" references a figure from Greek mythology associated with forests and wilderness, highlighting the species' preference for forested habitats.

There have been multiple revisions within the genus Heterometrus, so always ensure you are sourcing from reputable breeders knowledgeable about their taxonomy.

Housing & Substrate

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Spiderlings

• Enclosure Size: Sling Crib, 3" Tarantula Cube, Small Slider Crib, Small Cuboid, Terrestrial Sling Crib, Slider Crib Mini by Tarantula Cribs

• Substrate: Fill enclosure ½–¾ with Terra Aranea by The Bio Dude

• Humidity: Keep substrate damp, not swampy; provide a small water dish.

Juveniles

• Enclosure Size: Medium Slider Crib, 6" Tarantula Cube, 8" Tarantula Cube, Medium Cuboid by Tarantula Cribs

• Substrate: Fill enclosure ½–¾ with Terra Aranea by The Bio Dude.

• Decor: Cork bark hides, leaf litter, moss

• Humidity: Maintain moderate moisture with good cross ventilation; overflow water dish periodically.

Adults

• Enclosure Size: Large Slider Crib, 12" Cube, 18" Cube, Terrestrial XL by Tarantula Cribs

• Substrate: Fill enclosure ½–¾ with Terra Aranea by The Bio Dude.

• Decor: Provide ample hides using cork bark, leaf litter, and moss; shallow, wide water dish.

• Humidity: High (75–85%), with a damp side maintained through occasional water dish overflow and misting.

Temperature & Humidity

• Temperature: Maintain between 75–85°F (24–29°C)

• Humidity: Moderate to high (75–85%), maintained through substrate dampness, water dish evaporation, and occasional misting. Cross ventilation is essential to prevent mold growth.

Feeding Schedule

• Spiderlings: Small prey (pinhead crickets, fruit flies) 1–2 times weekly

• Juveniles: Appropriately sized prey once weekly (medium crickets, roaches)

• Adults: Large prey (crickets, dubia roaches) every 7–14 days

Feeding Guidelines

Monitor your scorpion's size and appetite:

• Abdomen smaller: increase feeding frequency

• Abdomen plump: reduce feeding to avoid obesity

Common Issues & Care Tips

Asian Forest Scorpions require deep substrate and proper ventilation to maintain humidity without causing stagnant conditions. Avoid overly wet or bone-dry substrates. Using Terra Aranea by The Bio Dude substrate helps maintain ideal humidity and supports stable burrows.

Communal Keeping

While some keepers have successfully kept Asian Forest Scorpions communally, this practice comes with significant risks. They are territorial and defensive, and communal setups should only be attempted by experienced hobbyists who can provide spacious enclosures with multiple hides to minimize stress and aggression.

Final Thoughts

The Asian Forest Scorpion is an exciting species to keep, offering an intriguing alternative to the well-known Emperor Scorpion. With similar size and care requirements, Asian Forest Scorpions provide the added appeal of a more defensive temperament and interesting behaviors. Their glossy black appearance, powerful claws, and fascinating nocturnal habits make them a standout in any arachnid collection. As always, ensure your scorpion is sourced from reputable captive breeders to support ethical hobby practices and conservation.

Additional Recommendations

For ideal setups, use enclosures from Tarantula Cribs (affiliate code TTC10 for 10% off), substrate from The Bio Dude, and purchase from trusted breeders such as Spider Shoppe (use code TTC10 for 10% savings). For more reputable vendor recommendations, visit the Dealer & Discounts section of my website.