Asian Forest Scorpion (Heterometrus laoticus)

Heterometrus laoticus is a black forest scorpion from Thailand and Laos. Females have a smooth, glossy carapace and abdominal plates, stout claws and a blackish sting bulb. Trade labels are often confused: the 2023 revision reassigned eastern Thai records to H. silenus, while laoticus remains in other parts of Thailand.

Specialist keepers need a secure enclosure, humid but ventilated conditions, moisture-holding substrate and sheltered retreats. Avoid handling and confirm the animal's identity. Females bear live young that ride on the mother's back.