Whip scorpions, scientifically classified under the arachnid order Uropygi, are often recognized by the alternative name “vinegaroons.” They are not true scorpions and possess no venom, despite their intimidating appearance, which includes large pedipalps that resemble pincers. The common name “vinegaroon” is derived from their unique defensive mechanism: when threatened, they can spray a fine mist containing a high concentration of acetic acid, which smells distinctly like vinegar. These organisms have a segmented body, a prominent tail-like flagellum, and rely on a carnivorous diet.
Primary Natural Prey
Whip scorpions are opportunistic carnivores that feed almost entirely on other invertebrates. Their primary food sources are soft-bodied arthropods and insects that they can easily subdue and consume. Specific prey items frequently include crickets, various species of cockroaches, and terrestrial isopods, often called pill bugs or woodlice. They also readily consume other ground-dwelling creatures, such as millipedes, worms, and slugs, which are abundant in the humid environments many species inhabit. Larger species, such as those within the genus Mastigoproctus, have been documented occasionally taking small vertebrates. The nocturnal hunting habits of these arachnids mean their diet is composed of whatever small, active life they encounter while foraging on the forest floor or within burrows.
Hunting and Feeding Mechanisms
Whip scorpions are nocturnal hunters. They possess poor eyesight, relying instead on highly specialized sensory organs to locate and track prey. The first pair of legs is modified into elongated, highly sensitive antenniform appendages, which they use to tap the ground and air to detect minute vibrations and chemical cues from potential meals.
Once a prey item is detected, the whip scorpion quickly seizes it using its large, powerful pedipalps, which are armed with sharp, spiny projections. The prey is then crushed and immobilized between the specialized teeth located on the inside of the trochanters, the second segment of the pedipalps. Finally, the food is passed to the chelicerae, or mouthparts, which are used to grind and chew the prey into a digestible pulp before ingestion.
Diet in Captivity
The whip scorpion’s diet in captivity is simulated using easily sourced feeder insects, mirroring their natural preference for invertebrates. Common captive food items include appropriately sized crickets, various feeder roaches like Dubia roaches, and mealworms. Feeder insects should be no larger than the whip scorpion’s abdomen to ensure they can be easily overpowered and consumed.
A practice known as gut-loading is often implemented, where the feeder insects are provided with a highly nutritious diet before being offered to the arachnid, increasing the nutritional value transferred to the predator. Adult whip scorpions typically require feeding only once or twice a week, though juveniles may need more frequent meals as they are actively growing. Although they derive most of their moisture from their prey, a shallow dish of clean water or regular misting is necessary for proper hydration.