Leiurus quinquestriatus ownership

[Cherri]

I picked up a 2in Leiurus quinquestriatus after tons of research, to fill one of my only tanks. It's been fairly active actually (don't worry im not and won't mess with it).

But I see a lot of controversy with their ownership. It's only my second hot scorp. But I have rattlesnakes, latrodectus, and pokies. Just curious about opinions, not looking for a debate.

 

[Outpost31Survivor]

I picked up a 2in Leiurus quinquestriatus after tons of research, to fill one of my only tanks. It's been fairly active actually (don't worry im not and won't mess with it).

But I see a lot of controversy with their ownership. It's only my second hot scorp. But I have rattlesnakes, latrodectus, and pokies. Just curious about opinions, not looking for a debate.

Be a very mature keeper and never lose respect for this arachnid as it is a dangerous scorpion. It is a very easy scorpion to care for and manage. Its behavior is a delight as it happens to be a very active scorpion and not at all shy even of lit rooms. Here are some facts about the Deathstalker Scorpion:

All scorpion stings are extremely painful. This is due to the nature of their venom, a powerful mix of neurotoxins that varies from species to species. The scorpions in this area feed primarily on insects. Perhaps the most dangerous is the Deathstalker, also known as the Israeli or Palestine Yellow Scorpion, the Omdurman Scorpion, or the Naqab Desert Scorpion (). Those stung may experience anaphylaxis. But usually only children, the elderly, or infirm risk fatalities (Qumsiyeh et al., 2013; Simard and Watt, 1990).

Scorpions of Medical Importance


Some of the more dangerous species of scorpions for which toxicity data have been reported are shown in Table 23.1. Based on mammalian toxicity, Leiurus quinquestriatus, Androctonus australis, and A. mauretanicus are generally recognized as the most venomous. Leiurus quinquestriatus (Fig. 23.11) is known in the Middle East and Sahel region of northern Africa as the yellow scorpion, in the Sudan as the Omdurman scorpion, and in the pet trade as the deathstalker scorpion The Androctonus spp. are commonly called fattail scorpions, referring to the marked thickness and width of their postabdominal segments. The fattail scorpion, Androctonus australis (Fig. 23.12), which occurs primarily in arid mountainous regions, causes more deaths than any other species in North Africa. Based on the numbers of cases and fatalities, it is probably the most deadly scorpion worldwide. The common yellow scorpion (Buthus occitanus), a widely distributed species in the Middle East and North Africa, is the only medically important species in southern Europe. Its toxicity varies markedly in different parts of its range, apparently reflecting different subspecies.


Venom:

Primarily neurotoxic with abundant cardiotoxins; fatalities primarily the result of cardiovascular and respiratory dysfunction and failure (Gueron, et al 1967, 1992; Gueron & Yaron 1970; Gueron & Ovsyshcher 1987; Sofer & Gueron 1988; Kopeyan et al 1985, 1993; Ismail et al 1993; Ismail 1995; Shalita & Wells 2007).

Reported LD50 toxicity levels of 0.16–0.50 mg/kg indicate that this species possesses one of the most toxic venoms described in scorpions. Despite the toxicity of the venom of this species, the majority of envenomations produce only localized effects in up to 97% of victims (Ben-Abraham 2000). Non-systemic reactions are probably due to the average quantity of venom injected (0.225 mg) being rather small. However, the venom of this species may be fatal in infants and children due to the effects being weight-dependent (Gueron & Yaron 1970). Despite anecdotal reports to the contrary, actual fatalities among envenomed adults are uncommon.

 

[snarf]

As long as you are careful and ALWAYS double tub these are a delight to watch and care for just never reach into the enclosure always use long tongs have fun!

 

[Redjunior]

Be a very mature keeper and never lose respect for this arachnid as it is a dangerous scorpion. It is a very easy scorpion to care for and manage. Its behavior is a delight as it happens to be a very active scorpion and not at all shy even of lit rooms. Here are some facts about the Deathstalker Scorpion:

All scorpion stings are extremely painful. This is due to the nature of their venom, a powerful mix of neurotoxins that varies from species to species. The scorpions in this area feed primarily on insects. Perhaps the most dangerous is the Deathstalker, also known as the Israeli or Palestine Yellow Scorpion, the Omdurman Scorpion, or the Naqab Desert Scorpion (). Those stung may experience anaphylaxis. But usually only children, the elderly, or infirm risk fatalities (Qumsiyeh et al., 2013; Simard and Watt, 1990).

Scorpions of Medical Importance


Some of the more dangerous species of scorpions for which toxicity data have been reported are shown in Table 23.1. Based on mammalian toxicity, Leiurus quinquestriatus, Androctonus australis, and A. mauretanicus are generally recognized as the most venomous. Leiurus quinquestriatus (Fig. 23.11) is known in the Middle East and Sahel region of northern Africa as the yellow scorpion, in the Sudan as the Omdurman scorpion, and in the pet trade as the deathstalker scorpion The Androctonus spp. are commonly called fattail scorpions, referring to the marked thickness and width of their postabdominal segments. The fattail scorpion, Androctonus australis (Fig. 23.12), which occurs primarily in arid mountainous regions, causes more deaths than any other species in North Africa. Based on the numbers of cases and fatalities, it is probably the most deadly scorpion worldwide. The common yellow scorpion (Buthus occitanus), a widely distributed species in the Middle East and North Africa, is the only medically important species in southern Europe. Its toxicity varies markedly in different parts of its range, apparently reflecting different subspecies.


Venom:

Primarily neurotoxic with abundant cardiotoxins; fatalities primarily the result of cardiovascular and respiratory dysfunction and failure (Gueron, et al 1967, 1992; Gueron & Yaron 1970; Gueron & Ovsyshcher 1987; Sofer & Gueron 1988; Kopeyan et al 1985, 1993; Ismail et al 1993; Ismail 1995; Shalita & Wells 2007).

Reported LD50 toxicity levels of 0.16–0.50 mg/kg indicate that this species possesses one of the most toxic venoms described in scorpions. Despite the toxicity of the venom of this species, the majority of envenomations produce only localized effects in up to 97% of victims (Ben-Abraham 2000). Non-systemic reactions are probably due to the average quantity of venom injected (0.225 mg) being rather small. However, the venom of this species may be fatal in infants and children due to the effects being weight-dependent (Gueron & Yaron 1970). Despite anecdotal reports to the contrary, actual fatalities among envenomed adults are uncommon.

Wasnt A.crasscaudia a contender for one of the most venomous? I read a article about them, saying their venom has something like 11 protien strains over the Desthstalkers 9 strains. Not sure on the facts of that page, but it was debating the A.crasscaudia was potentially THE most venomous scorpion.

I love L.q. been keeping them for 10 years. One of my favs. I love that spin they do, wait for it. You'll see it. Youll drop food in, and itll spin around tossing sand everywhere! And when the dust settles their claws are open, tails up ready to rock! If you want a good fun time, put in a horned worm. They seem to be able to see them. My L.q. have ran across the tank to grab a horned worm viciously (one time, my l.q. stung a worm 9 times, over and over like something out of friday the 13th) . But yes, very dangerous. But very fun to keep. They can be calm as summer breeze and other time they can be more chaotic than a butterfly in a hurricane.

 

[StampFan]

I picked up a 2in Leiurus quinquestriatus after tons of research, to fill one of my only tanks. It's been fairly active actually (don't worry im not and won't mess with it).

But I see a lot of controversy with their ownership. It's only my second hot scorp. But I have rattlesnakes, latrodectus, and pokies. Just curious about opinions, not looking for a debate.

What's the controversy?

Ever keeper on these forums has species with venom. Just like every house dangerous items that can harm you, like a container of bleach under a sink or in a cabinet somewhere.

Don't put your fingers near the scorpion. Don't drink the bleach.

Avoid those things and nothing bad happens to you from the venom or the bleach.

 

[Outpost31Survivor]

I found this video in a two year old Arachnoboard thread, never have I ever witnessed or seen this level of aggression in a Deathstalker ever. This little guy is completely mad dog. I wonder if cycle of day and temperature is playing role here if not simply just individual temperment.

 

[Redjunior]

I found this video in a two year old Arachnoboard thread, never have I ever witnessed or seen this level of aggression in a Deathstalker ever. This little guy is completely mad dog. I wonder if cycle of day and temperature is playing role here if not simply just individual temperment.

I'm no expert. But in the years I've kept deathstalker, I've seen them like this, I've seen them be hyper defensive and aggressive, sprint laps in the tanks, try and attack me through the glass of the tanks, attack tongs and almost anything moving in the tank.. like I bumped a plant one time and the l.q. tried to grab and sting.. and I'm also seen them be completely docile, slowly and casually walking their tanks, calmly laying on rocks and just hanging out, casually climbing, being very calm and relaxed. To the point I've held them a few times. ( dont do it..not a smart thing to do, like putting the bleach in your coffee.. i was alot younger and dumber..10 years ago. 17 isnt the brightest age) I dont think its temps that cause the savage behaviour, but I would think seasons. I've had l.q. in the same temps year-round and there are times in the year where they are a bit more aggressive and sporadic. It's what makes them so fun to keep. Just make sure you dont make a mistake that I have, and have plants that go to the top of the enclosure. I've had near escapes, and have nearly been stung by a tail coming out from under a leaf at the top of the enclosure.

Incidentally this was my first scorpion to ever have. Its probably why I love them so much, I learned lessons with a lethal species and grew my passion for the hobby through them. Jacksoni are the only other scorps I go bonkers for.

 

[Outpost31Survivor]

I'm no expert. But in the years I've kept deathstalker, I've seen them like this, I've seen them be hyper defensive and aggressive, sprint laps in the tanks, try and attack me through the glass of the tanks, attack tongs and almost anything moving in the tank.. like I bumped a plant one time and the l.q. tried to grab and sting.. and I'm also seen them be completely docile, slowly and casually walking their tanks, calmly laying on rocks and just hanging out, casually climbing, being very calm and relaxed. To the point I've held them a few times. ( dont do it..not a smart thing to do, like putting the bleach in your coffee.. i was alot younger and dumber..10 years ago. 17 isnt the brightest age) I dont think its temps that cause the savage behaviour, but I would think seasons. I've had l.q. in the same temps year-round and there are times in the year where they are a bit more aggressive and sporadic. It's what makes them so fun to keep. Just make sure you dont make a mistake that I have, and have plants that go to the top of the enclosure. I've had near escapes, and have nearly been stung by a tail coming out from under a leaf at the top of the enclosure.

Incidentally this was my first scorpion to ever have. Its probably why I love them so much, I learned lessons with a lethal species and grew my passion for the hobby through them. Jacksoni are the only other scorps I go bonkers for.

I have had 5 Deathstalkers in all and none of them behaved like that they were very chill and would explore every nook and cranny sometimes probing with their claws. However, if I intruded into their terrarium world and were alerted to my presence, they could perk up take a threat posture and even strike at tongs if I ever bothered to assist (corral) a cricket to its demise.

Among the hottest of the hots, they are a great species to keep because of their lack of "photosensitivity" and sheer activeness. (Ceiling light switches flicked-on never gave them flight in my experience.)

 

[SonsofArachne]

I currently have 4 species of Leiurus: Leiurus brachycentrus, Leiurus haenggii, Leiurus jordanensis, and Leiurus quinquestriatus - all behave pretty much the same; fast, aggressive feeders when hungry. I've never seen the crazier behavior that some have mentioned. As far as working with them goes always pause and think before you do anything inside the enclosure and always use tongs/paintbrush to do anything inside the enclosure. But seeing as you keep rattlesnakes I shouldn't have to tell you this.

 

[Outpost31Survivor]

Here is a statement from clinical studies from Saudi Arabia:

High risk patients are those with age less than 10 years or greater than 50 years; history of hypertension or diabetes; or patients who have sustained multiple stings.

The great majority of cases in otherwise healthy subjects can be conservatively treated by adequate analgesia, the local application of ice, and a period of observation dictated by the clinical findings. Particular care should be employed in the assessment of the very young and old, and of those with pre-existing morbidity, such as hypertension and diabetes. Site of sting appears insignificant, but multiple stings carry greater possibility of toxicity. Because scorpions are associated with known instances of serious morbidity and mortality, we recognize the place for antivenin in cases displaying serious (grades III and IV) envenomation. Routine use of antivenin in mild envenomation could lead to greater morbidity and increased need for hospitalization.

Just respect this creature and always use common sense.

 

[Gorrazdh]

love these guys (the L.Quins) and with help from some nice folks from this forum I learned a lot and want to keep on getting to know them. Just two for now but as soon as I make now enclosures and the weather allows for safe transport we'll be more, and more and maybe ten or so

 

[Dry Desert]

I picked up a 2in Leiurus quinquestriatus after tons of research, to fill one of my only tanks. It's been fairly active actually (don't worry im not and won't mess with it).

But I see a lot of controversy with their ownership. It's only my second hot scorp. But I have rattlesnakes, latrodectus, and pokies. Just curious about opinions, not looking for a debate.

Lovely scorpion -- use minimum 12 inch tongs and keep hands out. When I had mine I used nice pieces of cork bark as hides and screwed small round curtain hooks in the top of the hide to enable easy gripping with the tongs to carry out maintenance. This was done obviously before placing the hide into the enclosure. Be careful and enjoy.

 

[darkness975]

Lovely scorpion -- use minimum 12 inch tongs and keep hands out. When I had mine I used nice pieces of cork bark as hides and screwed small round curtain hooks in the top of the hide to enable easy gripping with the tongs to carry out maintenance. This was done obviously before placing the hide into the enclosure. Be careful and enjoy.

I like that idea.

 

[Dry Desert]

I like that idea.

Thanks, works well for bark scorpions also when the hides are vertical and they hide underneath.

 

[Gorrazdh]

Maybe it's just me loosing it over a scorpion doing what it should normally be doing but it's been like almost six months and this guy I call Rob (short of Robert L. Quinn) a probably young adult leiurus quinquestriatus with a BAD attitude. I was wondering how it's still alive. I count and keep track of the roaches given so I'm positive the other one, a larger and really chill female, had eaten 3, 4, 5, 6 ... roaches and this little dude 0. I'm just happy and if I shared that with anyone I know they'd surely be like oooooooook , so...

 

[Lubed Tweezer]

Maybe it's just me loosing it over a scorpion doing what it should normally be doing but it's been like almost six months and this guy I call Rob (short of Robert L. Quinn) a probably young adult leiurus quinquestriatus with a BAD attitude. I was wondering how it's still alive. I count and keep track of the roaches given so I'm positive the other one, a larger and really chill female, had eaten 3, 4, 5, 6 ... roaches and this little dude 0. I'm just happy and if I shared that with anyone I know they'd surely be like oooooooook , so...

You keeping him warm enough ? I keep mine at 29-34C during daytime.
Make sure he has no stress and a good hideout. Keep him away from any females (also female pheromones in the sand/substrate).
Do a close visual inspection of his mouth parts, look for anything abnormal.
If you normally don't have a water dish in his enclosure, then you could try that for about 1 hour and observe him to see if he at least drinks some water.
Normally LQ can do without water dish if it eats regularly, but 6 months totally dry is a long time.
Nothing wrong with roaches, but have you tried a fat juicy cricket ?

 

[Gorrazdh]

You keeping him warm enough ? I keep mine at 29-34C during daytime.
Make sure he has no stress and a good hideout. Keep him away from any females (also female pheromones in the sand/substrate).
Do a close visual inspection of his mouth parts, look for anything abnormal.
If you normally don't have a water dish in his enclosure, then you could try that for about 1 hour and observe him to see if he at least drinks some water.
Normally LQ can do without water dish if it eats regularly, but 6 months totally dry is a long time.
Nothing wrong with roaches, but have you tried a fat juicy cricket ?

roughly the same temperature, always has a water dish. The female is in a separate enclosure and his mouth parts look normal. Doesn't like dubias or crickets, only lateralis and just the small ones (when he at least tried to have a meal) so, yeah, he's a bit weird. I just try not to stress him out as much as possible. Thanx for the tips.

 

[Gorrazdh]

random update (not that anyone cares) Rob is still alive and still eating next to nothing. I was thinking about risking his life and putting him in with the female with the hope of getting a population started. Is it my call to make?

on a lighter note, I should have eight more shipped in a week or two, can't wait.

 

[Quetzalcoatl Nyarlathotep]

I've been having similar problems with my 2 LQ's. One hasn't eaten since January and the other ate for the first time since then last week. Honestly, they couldn't be more boring and unimpressive. I never see them during the day. I rarely see them at night. They just stay under their bark pieces all day. And run away from their food. Wish I never bought them.

 

[Outpost31Survivor]

I've been having similar problems with my 2 LQ's. One hasn't eaten since January and the other ate for the first time since then last week. Honestly, they couldn't be more boring and unimpressive. I never see them during the day. I rarely see them at night. They just stay under their bark pieces all day. And run away from their food. Wish I never bought them.

Wow! Are they adults? If not they could be in premolt. What temps are keeping them at? Lower temps lower metabolism. What size feeders are you offering them? If same size or larger than the scorpion try smaller size next time. If they are pretty plump in appearance? They could simply be full.

Most scorps when full or in premolt will display stressed avoidance behavior or annoyance at or a cool tolerance for feeders which is a good reason to remove the feeders after 12-24 hours. If your scorpions are duller in appearance that is a sign a molt is imminent. You shouldn't give them any feeders at this time.

Scorpions have very low metabolism and it is by their very nature to hide alot. Burrow down. Most species are "lie and wait" ambush predators.