Euscorpius candiota

Euscorpius candiota – a small scorpion from Crete

Euscorpius candiota is a brown scorpion with orange-brown pincers. According to the scientific description, it measures about 4 cm in total length. It owes its name to Candia, the former name of Heraklion on Crete.

In Crete, specimens of this species have been found under rocks. This is a good tip for your terrarium: By providing flat hiding spots, you can create sheltered areas where the scorpion can retreat.

Setting Up a Terrarium for Euscorpius candiota

Choose a well-ventilated enclosure with a secure lid. Pay special attention to gaps in the lid and doors. Set up the enclosure on the floor: Flat pieces of cork create tight hiding spots, while open areas provide space for hunting.

• Provide several hiding spots: Arrange flat pieces of cork bark so that sheltered crevices form underneath them.
• Keep the soil at varying levels of moisture: As a starting point, you can keep a small area slightly moist and let the rest remain drier. Be sure to avoid waterlogging.
• Place rocks securely: Position heavy rocks so they cannot tip over or sink.
• Keep themseparate: Plan to have one tank per animal. This will help you avoid conflicts, especially during feeding or molting.

Place the terrarium where it won’t be exposed to direct sunlight. Measure the temperature as close to the ground as possible, since that’s where the scorpion spends its time.

Food and Water

Offer small live insects as food, such as crickets that are a size your scorpion can easily grasp. Remove any uneaten prey. This is especially important when your scorpion retreats to molt.

Also, provide fresh water in a very shallow dish. Choose one that allows your scorpion to easily get in and out.

Observation and Care

Give the scorpion its own hiding place and don’t keep lifting the lid off its hiding spot. Euscorpius candiota can sting, so don’t pick it up with your hands. If you need to move it for care, use a suitable collection cup.

How venomous is Euscorpius candiota?

In our experience, Euscorpius candiota stings very rarely. If the scorpion feels threatened, it is more likely to pinch with its pincers. If a sting does occur, the pain can feel similar to a wasp sting. However, it is impossible to predict how strongly you will react to it.

So don’t pick up the scorpion with your hands. If you need to move it, use a net.

The Right Accessories for Your Scorpion Terrarium

Insektenliebe Terrarium – offers space for a structured setup with multiple hiding spots. When choosing a size, make sure the lid and openings close securely for your pet.

Forest humus —can be used as a base for the substrate. This allows you to moisten a small area specifically without getting the entire tank wet.

Dragonstone —creates shallow, sheltered crevices. Small pieces can be placed in several spots throughout the tank.

“Insektenliebe” Round Bowl – When made in a shallow design appropriate for the animal’s size, it can be used as a water bowl.

Exo Terra Digital Thermometer and Hygrometer – helps you monitor temperature and humidity when setting up your terrarium or moving it to a new location.

Suitable Live Food – we select the food based on the species and size of your scorpion.

Conclusion: A small terrarium with good hiding spots

For Euscorpius candiota, the most important factor is how you set up the substrate. With shallow hiding spots, a slightly more humid retreat area, and a secure lid, you can create a terrarium where you can observe the scorpion without having to remove it from its hiding spot for daily care.