What does heterometrus longimanus mean?

Answer 1

The Black Scorpion (Heterometrus longimanus, of the family Scorpionidae), or the Asian Forest Scorpion, is a resident of tropical Asian regions, particularly in the Southeast or the countries of Singapore, Malaysia and Thailand.

Black Scorpions typically inhabit the wild and nest under logs and other natural debris. Most of the time, these scorpions are above ground, preying on insects for food, but they might also burrow to some extent.

People often confuse Black Scorpions with Malaysian Forest Scorpions (Heterometrus spinifer). The two are surprisingly similar: they even share some features with the Emperor Scorpion, but they are actually distinct and individual species.

Black Scorpions are not considered to be medically important scorpions: the venom is normally not considered lethal, as with all scorpion species in the family Scorpionidae. However, compared to the pandinus species, black scorpions are distinct for their stronger stings that equal that of a hornet. This is attributed to the fact that they have a slightly shorter and stubbier stinging barb.

A Black Scorpion is larger than average, averaging four to four and a half inches in length, is known to have a medium to long lifespan (estimated up to 7 years) and is quite hardy. Under direct sunlight, the Black Scorpion's coloration is deep black with no tints of any other coloration, while the Malaysian specie would appear to have shades of a greenish or bluish tint.

Additionally, Black Scorpions are known to be territorial, but they may also exhibit aggression towards members of their own species.

Answer 2

Heterometrus longimanus is a species of scorpion commonly known as the giant forest scorpion. It is characterized by its large size and elongated arms, which give it the "longimanus" name, meaning long-handed in Latin. This scorpion is native to Southeast Asia and is popular in the pet trade due to its impressive appearance.