Heterometrus cimrmani
Latin Name: Heterometrus cimrmani
Family: Scorpionidae
Genus: Heterometrus
Species: cimrmani
Common Name: Thai Forest Scorpion
Temperature: 23°- 28°
Humidity: 80-90
Communal: Yes 4/5
Fossorial/ Terrestrial
Substrate: Tropical substrate that can hold a burrow.
Origin: Tropical rainforests of Thailand
Heterometrus cimrmani is a species of scorpion native to Thailand, commonly referred to as the Thai forest scorpion. It inhabits the humid, tropical forests of Southeast Asia.
Taxonomy and Classification
Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Arthropoda
Class: Arachnida
Order: Scorpiones
Family: Scorpionidae
Genus: Heterometrus
Species: Heterometrus cimrmaniThis scorpion species, named in honor of Jára Cimrman, a fictional Czech polymath, was first described by František Kovařík in 2004. It is found in Thailand and Malaysia. Notably, in 2020, it was synonymized with Heterometrus laevigatus in a systematic revision of Asian forest scorpions by Prendini and Loria, but a 2023 review by Kawai et al. reinstated H. cimrmani as a valid species, distinguishing it from H. laevigatus and reinstating its original classification.
Physical Characteristics
H. cimrmani is a large scorpion, with adults reaching lengths of up to 15 centimeters. It exhibits a dark exoskeleton, typically black and glossy with lots of granulation over it's carapace. Males of this species typically have elongated pedipalps, with both sexes have dark coloured telsons.
Behavior and Ecology
This nocturnal predator feeds on a variety of insects and other small invertebrates. During the day, it seeks shelter under logs, rocks, or within leaf litter to avoid predators and maintain moisture levels.
Venom and Human Interaction
While H. cimrmani possesses venom, it's sting is generally not considered dangerous to humans, causing mild to moderate pain and localized swelling. Nonetheless, caution is advised when handling or encountering this scorpion in the wild.
Interesting Facts
This species was named in honor of Jara Cimrman, a fictional Czech polymath celebrated in Czech culture.