Dictator scorpion (Pandinus dictator)
Invertebrates · Difficulty: Intermediate
Key facts and care guidance for Dictator scorpion (Pandinus dictator) (origin: West Africa (Cameroon, Gabon)). Adult size around 16–20 cm (one of the largest scorpions). Life expectancy 8–12 years. The values below are carefully researched guidance.
Short answers
Dictator scorpion: How big does the enclosure need to be?
50×40×30 cm.
Dictator scorpion: What temperature does it need?
Daytime 25–30 °C, basking spot No basking spot, at night 21–24 °C.
Dictator scorpion: Does it need UVB lighting?
UVB: Not required.
Dictator scorpion: How long do they live?
Life expectancy: 8–12 years.
Dictator scorpion: Is it suitable for beginners?
Rather not – it is considered an intermediate species (difficulty: Intermediate).
Climate
- Daytime temperature
- 25–30 °C
- Night temperature
- 21–24 °C
- Basking spot
- No basking spot
- Humidity
- 75–85 %
- UVB
- Not required
Enclosure
- Minimum size
- 50×40×30 cm
- Substrate
- Damp coco humus 15–20 cm, large cork bark, a water dish
Feeding
- Food
- House crickets, roaches, large insects
- Feeding interval
- every 7–14 days
Key facts
- Adult size
- 16–20 cm (one of the largest scorpions)
- Life expectancy
- 8–12 years
- Origin
- West Africa (Cameroon, Gabon)
- Protection status
- CITES II; mildly venomous
- Brumation
- None
- Cohabitation
- Keeping it singly is the safe choice - solitary and cannibalistic; two animals in one enclosure regularly end up as one, even if similarly sized and well fed. A few keepers report pair or small-group housing in very spacious enclosures with plenty of hides, but this is not the rule and should only be attempted under close observation.
Notes
Even larger than the emperor scorpion. It needs plenty of area and permanently high humidity. Despite the impressive pincers, fairly calm – the sting is painful but not dangerous.
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Related species
- Emperor scorpion (Pandinus imperator) – Beginner
- Tanzanian red-clawed scorpion (Pandinus cavimanus) – Intermediate
- Giant desert hairy scorpion (Hadrurus arizonensis) – Beginner with some knowledge
- Asian giant forest scorpion (Heterometrus longimanus) – Beginner
- Asian black scorpion (Heterometrus petersii) – Beginner
- Asian forest scorpion (Heterometrus spinifer) – Intermediate
- Brazilian yellow scorpion (Tityus serrulatus) – Expert
- Italian scorpion (Euscorpius italicus) – Beginner
What you need to start
To keep Dictator scorpion (Pandinus dictator) you typically need: a suitable enclosure (50×40×30 cm), substrate (Damp coco humus 15–20 cm, large cork bark, a water dish), a heat source with a thermostat, thermometer and hygrometer, a water dish and hides. You will find equipment in the Reptoria marketplace.
The complete, interactive care database is in the Reptoria app.
Last updated: 9 October 2026 · Editor: Reptoria editorial team · Sources include: https://backwaterreptilesblog.com/dictator-scorpion-care-pandinus-dictator/, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pandinus
All values are non-binding guidance and do not replace expert advice. Research thoroughly from several sources before acquiring and keeping an animal, and observe the applicable law (species and animal protection in particular).