Arachnid · Scorpion
Dune scorpion care guide
Smeringurus mesaensis
The dune scorpion is a intermediate-level scorpion from SW USA, NW Mexico. Adults reach Length 7–9 cm and live 5–8 years in captivity. Sand-dune specialist that needs deep fine sand and strong ventilation.
- Enclosure 45 × 30 × 30 cm
- Temp 28–34°C
- Humidity 20–30%
How much does a dune scorpion cost in Canada?
Dune scorpion quick facts
- Skill level
- Intermediate
- Adult size
- Length 7–9 cm
- Lifespan
- 5–8 years
- Activity
- Nocturnal
- Native range
- SW USA, NW Mexico
- Minimum enclosure
- 45 × 30 × 30 cm (18 × 12 × 12 in, ≈ 11 US gal)
- Housing
- Best kept alone.
- Temperature
- 28–34°C
- Humidity
- 20–30%
- UVB
- Not needed
- Diet
- Insectivore – crickets, dubia roaches, mealworms
- Bioactive style
- Desert invertebrate
Dune scorpion enclosure & bioactive setup
Give one adult at least 45 × 30 × 30 cm (18 × 12 × 12 inches). Best kept alone. This species suits a desert invertebrate bioactive build.
- Soil and sand mix15 cm
Keep it dry with one slightly moistened corner. Desert species are sensitive to stuffy, wet conditions.
Temperature: 28–34°C. Humidity: 20–30%. UVB: Not needed.
What does a dune scorpion eat?
Insectivore – crickets, dubia roaches, mealworms. Adults: 2–3 appropriately sized insects every 7–10 days; remove uneaten prey after 24 hours.
Handling, temperament & health
Fast and defensive with a mild sting; use tongs.
Health watch: Too much humidity and poor ventilation cause deaths; keep it dry with a tiny water dish or a lightly misted corner weekly.
Cleaning & maintenance schedule
Daily
- Visual check.
Weekly
- Feed; remove leftovers.
- Moisten one corner lightly.
Monthly
- Check the soil hasn’t become damp throughout.
Yearly
- Refresh substrate if it smells or compacts.
Recommended for a dune scorpion bioactive
Quantities are for one minimum-size enclosure (45 × 30 × 30 cm).
Dune scorpion FAQ
Is the dune scorpion good for beginners?
The dune scorpion is best for keepers with some experience (intermediate). Fast and defensive with a mild sting; use tongs.
What size enclosure does a dune scorpion need?
At least 45 × 30 × 30 cm (about 18 × 12 × 12 inches, roughly 11 US gallons) for one adult. Best kept alone.
How much does a dune scorpion cost in Canada?
Typically $40–100 CAD to buy, about $140–240 CAD for a complete bioactive enclosure, and $40–90 CAD a year to keep.
What temperature and humidity does a dune scorpion need?
Temperature: 28–34°C. Humidity: 20–30%.
What does a dune scorpion eat?
Insectivore – crickets, dubia roaches, mealworms. Adults: 2–3 appropriately sized insects every 7–10 days; remove uneaten prey after 24 hours.
Similar species
This care sheet is general guidance from One Bioactive, not veterinary advice. Needs vary with age, locality and individual animals – confirm with your breeder and an exotics vet. Prices are typical Canadian ranges in CAD and change over time.