Description
Leiurus jordanensis is a striking desert scorpion from Jordan, distinguished by its coal-black coloration and extremely rapid reactions. It is intended for experienced keepers because its enclosure must combine a dry environment, carefully positioned shelters, a stable temperature cycle, and controlled feeding.
Building the desert habitat
Use fine quartz sand or a sand-and-clay mixture as the substrate. A depth of 5–7 cm gives the scorpion enough material to make small burrows beneath flat stones or pieces of bark. The enclosure should also contain suitable retreats, such as securely positioned flat stones or ceramic caves.
Temperature and humidity cycle
Maintain a daytime temperature of 28–32°C and allow it to fall to 20–22°C at night. This daily change reflects the temperature rhythm of a desert habitat. Relative humidity should remain around 30–40%, and this dry-adapted species does not require routine misting.
Low humidity does not remove the need for drinking water. Once a week, provide a small dish containing clean water. Alternatively, lightly moisten one corner of the enclosure, taking care not to wet the sand directly beneath the shelter.
Feeding routine
Leiurus jordanensis eats appropriately sized feeder insects, including cockroaches and crickets. Juveniles are offered food every 3–5 days, while adults are generally fed every 10–14 days. The schedule should follow actual consumption rather than a rigid quantity. If the scorpion shows no interest in its prey, remove the uneaten insect immediately.
Care during molting
The period surrounding a molt requires minimal disturbance. Before molting, the scorpion may become inactive and can refuse food for an extended period, sometimes for months. Do not disturb it or attempt to feed it at this stage. After the molt, wait 7–10 days before offering food so the new exoskeleton has time to harden.
Secure housing
This fast-reacting species requires a firmly closing enclosure that can be serviced while keeping escape risk under control. The source specifically describes PETG and acrylic systems fitted with two sliding-latch lids. All closures should be checked before feeding or cleaning, and enclosure access should be approached with the level of care appropriate to an experienced keeper.