What is the largest scorpion species?

The largest scorpion species is the Asian giant forest scorpion, Gigantometrus swammerdami.

Native to India, this giant forest scorpion can reach about 23 centimetres, or 9 inches, in total length and may weigh around 56 grams. Older references commonly place it in the genus Heterometrus, so the same animal may appear as Heterometrus swammerdami in books, databases and older quiz material.

Its imposing size is matched by a robust build: the pincers are broad and powerful, while the bulbous tail ends in a stinger. Unlike many smaller but medically notorious scorpions, it appears to rely substantially on its claws to crush prey. Its venom is generally not considered highly dangerous to healthy adults, though any sting can cause pain and medical risk varies.

The Arizona bark scorpion and deathstalker are famous for medically significant venom, not record size. The emperor scorpion is large and popular in captivity, but it is shorter than the Asian giant forest scorpion.