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Introduction
M. giganteus is most commonly known as the Giant Vinegaroon whip scorpion and are found throughout the southern United States and northern Mexico. It is contained in the order Thelyphonida formerly Uropygi. The name derives from this species‘ unusual defensive measure, the Giant Vinegaroon can spray a vinegar-like (acetic acid) substance to scare away predators. Often mistaken for insects, these animals are in fact arachnids and have eight legs. The foremost limbs that are commonly mistaken for feelers are in fact specially developed legs.
Vinegaroons are nocturnal and have poor vision, relying on sensing vibrations to locate prey. Other common names include the vinegarroon, vinegarone, grampus, and the mule killer.
Whip scorpions do not have venom, however they do secrete vinegar that can be dangerous to some people. Although most people are not affected by this substance, allergies to acetic acid would obviously make you very vulnerable to this defence. Whip scorpions should be respected and handling these animals is not recommended. However, despite this warning, they are mostly considered harmless when compared to their venomous counterparts and make great pets.
A very young Giant Vinegaroon
Description
The Giant Vinegaroon has a brown or black colouration and they have long whip-like tails that contain no sting. Vinegaroons have large pedipalps that are formed into pincers. The first pair of legs are not feelers as such but specially developed legs used like antenna to feel their way around. They can grow up to 6 inches, including front legs and tail.
Habitat
Enclosure
For these creatures it is recommended that you use an enclosure of atleast 5 gallons, but 10 would be ideal as they like to roam about their environment. You should provide some furniture for your pet, they are nocturnal animals and in the wild they will spend the day hiding under rocks and other debris. If you are providing an assortment of rocks and other obstacles for your whip scorpion, be sure to arrange them securely so they do not collapse.
Substrate
The enclosure should be layered with between 8-15 cm ( 3.5-6 inches) of peat moss, sphagnum moss or potting soil. The substrate needs to be deep enought to allow the whip scorpion to burrow into and create a hide. Vermiculite can also be used in conjunction with the above substrates.
Temperature
These animals require a temperature range of between 24-30°C (75-85°F). A temperature gradient is important to allow the whip scorpions to regulate their body temperature as needed. The easiest way to provide the gradient is by using a heating mat designed for use under reptile tanks. This should be placed under no more than about 1/3 of the tank, so your pet can move from warmer to cooler temperatures if desired. Always verify that appropriate temperatures are being provided by using accurate thermometers in a few locations within the enclosure.
Here you can see the whip-tail of the Giant Vinegaroon
Humidity
Humidity should be maintained at between 75-85% by regular misting, preferably daily. The substrate should be kept damp, but not wet. If there is mold on the substrate or condensation on the walls of the tank, the humidity is too high.
To successfully maintain the desired humidity conditions for your whip scorpion you are going to need a hygrometer. A hygrometer is a device used to measure relative humidity within the enclosure.
Lighting
Giant Vinegaroons are nocturnal and lighting will only encourage them to seek shelter. However, if the substrate is suitable for the scorpion to burrow deep enough and a good hide is supplied within the enclosure then lighing will not do any harm.
Feeding
The Giant Vinegaroon will feed on many different types of insects, including crickets and roaches. They use ground vibrations to detect the movements of insects, and then use their elongated forelegs to find prey, and then uses its pinchers, to grip and capture it’s prey. They may use their acetic acid secretions to kill some prey items.
Water
A large, shallow water dish can be provided as this will also aid in maintaining the necessary humidity conditions within the enclosure.