Flat Rock Scorpion
Species Description

The Flat Rock Scorpion, scientifically designated Hadogenes troglodytes, represents one of the most distinctive scorpion species in the exotic pet trade. The genus name Hadogenes derives from Greek roots meaning thick or stout kind, referencing the robust build characteristic of these animals. Some interpretations connect the name to Hades, the Greek god of the underworld, suggesting born of Hades—an appropriately dramatic etymology for cave-dwelling creatures.

The species name troglodytes combines Greek words meaning cave-dweller, accurately describing their preferred rocky crevice microhabitat. Common names include the South African Rock Scorpion, Long-tailed African Scorpion, and simply Flat Rock Scorpion. The flat rock designation specifically references their dramatically compressed body shape, an adaptation allowing them to squeeze into remarkably narrow rock fissures.

The genus Hadogenes contains 19 recognized species, all endemic to Africa south of the equator. Hadogenes troglodytes occurs primarily in South Africa's Limpopo province, extending into northern Mpumalanga, Botswana, Zimbabwe, and western Mozambique. They may occasionally be confused with the similar Hadogenes bicolor in the pet trade, though accurate species identification often proves challenging due to morphological similarities within the genus.

Flat Rock Scorpions possess one of the most distinctive body plans among scorpions, with extreme dorsoventral compression allowing them to navigate narrow rock crevices with ease. Males hold records as the longest scorpions, reaching total lengths of 18-21 centimeters from head to tail tip. Females are somewhat smaller, typically measuring 14-17 centimeters. Despite their impressive length, their compressed bodies make them appear almost pancake-like when viewed from above.

The overall coloration presents as predominantly black across the carapace, pedipalps, and metasoma, while the legs and chelae display paler yellowish tones. This coloration provides excellent camouflage against the dark granite and sandstone outcrops they inhabit naturally. The exoskeleton appears smooth and somewhat glossy, lacking the granular texture seen in many desert scorpion species.

The metasoma, or tail, represents perhaps their most unusual feature. Unlike typical scorpion tails that curve dramatically upward ending in a prominent stinger, the Flat Rock Scorpion's metasoma is remarkably thin and elongated, often held off to the side rather than curled overhead. The vesicle containing the stinger is proportionally small compared to other scorpions, reflecting their strategy of relying on powerful pincers rather than venom for prey capture.

Their pedipalps terminate in large, powerful chelae capable of crushing prey and delivering painful pinches to handlers. These impressive claws reflect the species' hunting strategy—they overpower prey through strength rather than venom injection. Specialized curved telotarsal claws on their legs enable rapid movement across rocky surfaces but hinder locomotion on loose substrates like sand.

Flat Rock Scorpions rank among the most docile scorpions available in the pet trade, displaying remarkably shy, non-aggressive temperaments. Their first response to any perceived threat is retreat into the nearest crevice. Even slight vibrations from footsteps in another room may trigger hiding behavior, with scorpions backing deep into their rock shelters until the perceived danger passes. This skittish nature makes them poor display animals for those expecting visible activity.

Despite possessing functional venom glands, these scorpions rarely sting defensively. Studies and keeper reports suggest their venom ranks among the mildest of any scorpion species, producing effects ranging from virtually nothing to mild stinging sensations comparable to nettle contact. They rely almost exclusively on their powerful pincers for both prey capture and defense, making their chelae the greater concern for handlers than their seldom-used stingers.

Hunting behavior reflects their patient, ambush-oriented lifestyle. These nocturnal predators emerge from hiding after dark, positioning themselves near crevice entrances to intercept passing prey. They detect potential meals through substrate vibrations rather than vision, striking with surprising speed when prey ventures within reach. Captured prey is crushed by the powerful chelae, with venom used only occasionally to subdue larger struggling items.

Social behavior in the wild involves spatial separation between adults and juveniles on shared rock outcrops. Attempts to house multiple Flat Rock Scorpions together in captivity typically end in cannibalism, with larger individuals eventually consuming smaller tankmates. Even mated pairs should be separated after breeding, as females may consume males given opportunity.

Female reproductive behavior includes extended gestation periods potentially exceeding 18 months—among the longest of any scorpion. Mothers give live birth to scorplings that ride on her back during early development, receiving protection from predators and environmental extremes. Maternal aggression increases during this period, though even defensive mothers remain more likely to flee than fight.

Creating appropriate habitat for Flat Rock Scorpions requires understanding their specialized rock crevice lifestyle. A 10-gallon glass aquarium provides minimum adequate space, though larger enclosures allow more elaborate rock arrangements. The enclosure should offer horizontal floor space rather than height, as these terrestrial scorpions rarely climb beyond navigating rock formations.

Rock arrangement represents the most critical husbandry consideration. Stack flat slate, shale, or similar stones to create narrow horizontal crevices the scorpion can squeeze into. Spaces of approximately half an inch between rock layers work well for adults. Secure rock arrangements carefully—these heavy structures can shift and crush scorpions if not stabilized. Some keepers use aquarium silicone to permanently affix rocks to enclosure backs, creating stable crevice systems the scorpion cannot dislodge.

Substrate should support rock arrangements while providing some moisture retention. A mixture of three parts washed play sand to one part potting soil works well, allowing for the slight humidity these scorpions require. The substrate need not be deep—2-3 inches provides adequate base for rock structures. Avoid loose sand alone, as their specialized feet make navigation difficult on purely particulate substrates.

Temperature requirements align with their semi-arid African origins. Daytime temperatures should reach 80-90°F with a thermal gradient allowing cooler retreat areas. Some keepers maintain basking spots up to 95°F, though temperatures above this risk overheating. Nighttime temperatures can drop to 70°F without concern. Under-tank heat mats or low-wattage ceramic heat emitters provide appropriate warmth without the drying effects of heat lamps.

Humidity should remain moderate at 40-60%, significantly lower than tropical scorpion species. Excessive moisture promotes fatal fungal and bacterial infections in these arid-adapted animals. Good ventilation prevents humidity buildup, and mesh-top enclosures typically provide adequate airflow. A small water dish can be offered periodically—perhaps once weekly or biweekly—then removed to prevent excessive enclosure humidity.

Molting occurs infrequently in adult Flat Rock Scorpions, but proper conditions remain essential. Ensure humidity reaches the higher end of the acceptable range when pre-molt signs appear. The scorpion will seek a secure crevice for molting and should not be disturbed for several weeks afterward as the new exoskeleton hardens.

Flat Rock Scorpions are remarkably light feeders compared to many captive invertebrates, reflecting their sedentary lifestyle and slow metabolism. In nature, they may go weeks between successful prey captures, and captive feeding schedules should reflect this infrequent natural pattern. Offering one or two appropriately-sized prey items monthly typically suffices for healthy adults.

Crickets represent the most convenient staple food, providing complete nutrition when properly gut-loaded. Offer crickets no longer than the distance between the scorpion's eyes to prevent overwhelming the animal or leaving dangerous uneaten prey in the enclosure. Dubia roaches, mealworms, and superworms provide dietary variety and may be accepted depending on individual preference.

These scorpions overpower prey through physical strength rather than venom injection. Watching them hunt provides insight into their chelae-dominant predation strategy—prey is grasped and crushed by the powerful pincers, with the small stinger rarely employed. This hunting style means they handle larger, more active prey effectively, though offering oversized items increases escape risk and enclosure cleaning needs.

Avoid overfeeding, as these slow-metabolism animals easily become obese when offered food too frequently. An overfed Flat Rock Scorpion may refuse food for months while processing previous meals. If your scorpion ignores offered prey, remove the uneaten item within 24 hours and wait several weeks before trying again. Healthy adults may naturally fast for extended periods without concern.

Gut-loading feeder insects improves nutritional value and moisture content. Feed crickets or roaches fresh vegetables, commercial gut-load diets, or fish flakes for 24-48 hours before offering to the scorpion. This transfers essential vitamins and minerals through the food chain.

Hydration comes primarily from prey items, as these arid-adapted scorpions have efficient water conservation mechanisms. However, offering a shallow water dish periodically allows drinking if needed. Remove the dish after a day to prevent humidity problems. Some keepers mist one corner of the enclosure lightly once weekly, allowing the scorpion to drink from droplets if desired.

Flat Rock Scorpions are exceptionally hardy captives when provided with appropriate environmental conditions, potentially living decades in captivity. Most health problems trace directly to husbandry errors rather than infectious disease. Their slow metabolism and infrequent molting reduce many risks common in faster-growing invertebrate species. However, wild-caught specimens—which comprise most available animals—may already be elderly when purchased, making sudden deaths from natural causes unfortunately common.

The exceptional longevity potential of Flat Rock Scorpions—up to 30 years by some accounts—rewards patient keepers with decades of observation. Success requires respecting their specialized needs: rocky crevice habitat, moderate humidity, and infrequent feeding. Wild-caught specimens carry inherent uncertainty regarding remaining lifespan, making captive-bred animals worth seeking despite their relative rarity in the trade.

While Flat Rock Scorpions can technically be handled due to their mild venom, they are best appreciated as display animals observed rather than touched. Their skittish nature means handling causes significant stress, with the scorpion attempting to flee and potentially falling. Additionally, their powerful chelae can deliver surprisingly painful pinches—a greater concern than their seldom-used stingers.

When handling becomes necessary for enclosure maintenance or health checks, work over soft surfaces close to the ground. Never grasp the scorpion directly—instead, gently encourage it into a catch container using a soft brush or piece of cardboard. Their flat bodies allow them to wedge tightly into crevices, making forcible removal potentially injurious. Patience and gentle coaxing work better than attempting to extract a determined scorpion from its hiding spot.

Never pick up Flat Rock Scorpions by the metasoma. Their unusually thin, elongated tails cannot support body weight like those of more typical scorpions, and lifting by the tail risks serious injury. If you must handle directly, support the entire body from beneath, allowing the scorpion to rest on your flat palm rather than gripping it.

Daily care requirements are minimal for these low-maintenance animals. Check temperature and humidity readings, observe the scorpion's general condition if visible, and remove any obvious waste. Weekly tasks include cleaning water dishes if provided and checking rock arrangement stability. Monthly activities may include spot-cleaning substrate and offering food.

Establish baseline normal behavior through regular observation. Note typical hiding spots, activity patterns, and feeding response. Changes from established patterns may indicate environmental problems, approaching molt, or health concerns. Pre-molt scorpions often refuse food and become even more reclusive than usual.

These scorpions may remain hidden for days or weeks at a time, which is entirely normal behavior. Resist the urge to disturb hiding scorpions to check on them—this causes unnecessary stress and may trigger defensive responses.

Flat Rock Scorpions make excellent beginner scorpions for keepers who understand what they're getting: a long-lived, docile, but largely inactive display animal. Their mild venom, shy nature, and straightforward environmental requirements minimize risks associated with scorpion keeping. However, those expecting visible activity or frequent feeding excitement should consider more active species.

The species suits patient keepers who appreciate longevity over constant entertainment. With potential lifespans exceeding 20 years, a Flat Rock Scorpion represents a genuine long-term commitment. Their slow metabolism means feeding occurs infrequently, and their secretive nature means days may pass without seeing your scorpion at all. For keepers who enjoy creating elaborate rocky habitats and observing occasional nocturnal activity, these unusual animals provide years of quiet fascination.

Conservation concerns should influence purchasing decisions. Hadogenes troglodytes faces genuine habitat threats from mining operations in its native range, and most available specimens are wild-caught. Seek captive-bred animals when possible, both for ethical reasons and because captive-bred specimens start life with known ages rather than the uncertain remaining lifespans of wild-caught adults.

Space requirements remain moderate despite their impressive length. A 10-gallon enclosure provides adequate space, fitting on desks or shelves without dominating a room. The rock-heavy setup does require some initial investment in materials and careful arrangement, but ongoing maintenance needs are minimal.

Household suitability depends on comfort with scorpions generally rather than specific concerns about this species. Their mild venom and non-aggressive nature minimize risk, though powerful pincers can deliver painful pinches if carelessly handled. Children should be supervised around enclosures and taught never to reach into the tank. Secure lids prevent escapes, and their slow movement makes recapture straightforward if escape occurs.

For keepers seeking active, visible invertebrate pets, Emperor Scorpions or Asian Forest Scorpions may provide more satisfying ownership experiences. Flat Rock Scorpions reward those who appreciate their unique adaptations and extraordinary longevity rather than demanding constant entertainment.