Description
Chaerilus variegatus ‘Lampung’ – The Javan Black Dwarf Scorpion
Compact, cryptic, and genuinely rare — Chaerilus variegatus ‘Lampung’, the Javan Black Dwarf Scorpion, is one of the most sought-after dwarf scorpion species available in the hobby. This exceptional Lampung locality specimen originates from the southern tip of Sumatra, Indonesia — a region of extraordinary biodiversity that produces some of the most distinctive Chaerilus specimens found anywhere in the archipelago. Deep, rich black coloration, a robust compact build, and the fascinating biology of the Chaerilus genus make this a prized addition to any serious scorpion collection.
Why Choose Chaerilus variegatus ‘Lampung’?
- Rare Lampung Locality: Sourced from the Lampung region of southern Sumatra — a specific and prized locality known for producing particularly dark, robust C. variegatus specimens
- Striking Black Coloration: Deep, rich black to dark brown coloration across the entire body — a dramatic, elegant appearance that makes this species a standout display animal
- Compact Dwarf Size: A true dwarf scorpion reaching only 3–4 cm — perfectly suited to small, detailed display enclosures that showcase every feature of this remarkable animal
- Fascinating Chaerilus Biology: A member of the ancient family Chaerilidae — one of the most primitive scorpion families on Earth, with a fossil record stretching back hundreds of millions of years
- Hardy & Manageable: A robust, adaptable species that thrives in well-maintained humid tropical setups with straightforward care requirements
- Highly Collectible: Locality-specific Chaerilus are among the most sought-after scorpions in the advanced hobby — rarely available and always in demand
Natural History
The Chaerilus genus represents one of the most ancient scorpion lineages on Earth, belonging to the family Chaerilidae — a group whose morphology has remained largely unchanged for hundreds of millions of years. Chaerilus variegatus is distributed across the Indonesian archipelago, with the Lampung locality of southern Sumatra producing specimens noted for their particularly deep black coloration and robust build. In the wild, this species inhabits humid tropical forest environments, sheltering under bark, rocks, and leaf litter in the forest understory. A slow-moving, cryptic ambush predator, it relies on patience and camouflage rather than speed to secure prey.
Venom Potency & Temperament
⚠️ Venomous Species: Chaerilus variegatus is venomous. While Chaerilus venom is generally considered mild compared to medically significant scorpion species, a sting can cause localized pain, swelling, and discomfort. This species should never be handled. Always use long tongs during all enclosure maintenance and exercise appropriate caution.
Care Requirements
- Enclosure: Small, secure escape-proof enclosure with a tight-fitting lid; a 5–10 liter enclosure is ideal for a single specimen
- Substrate: 3–4 inches of moist coco fiber or tropical soil mix; maintain consistent moisture throughout
- Temperature: 75–84°F; consistent tropical warmth is essential
- Humidity: 75–85%; keep substrate moist with good surface ventilation to prevent stagnation
- Hides: Provide cork bark flats, cork tubes, or flat stones for shelter — this species is highly secretive and must have adequate hides
- Diet: Small crickets, roaches, or other appropriately sized prey; feed every 7–10 days — this species has a slow metabolism
- Temperament: Cryptic and slow-moving but defensive when disturbed — never handle
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