Flat rock scorpion

Introduction: Any crack or crevice in a rock or layer of rock is the favoured habitat of the Hadogenes phyllodes. Their powerful claws are an indication of weak venom.
Distribution: Confined to southern Namibia including Fish River Canyon, Keetmanshoop, Quiver Tree Forest, Orange River, Karasberg Mountains and north to the Brukkaros Crater.
Diet: Millipedes, smaller scorpions, spiders and insects.
Colouration: Black bodies with lighter legs and claws.
Breeding: The male punctures the body wall of the female with his sexual sting. As the females pincers are strong enough to crush a male, he has to reach around the side of a female's body to giver her one. The sting remains in the female for up to 20mins and as this has a calming effect, males are able to manoeuvre the female to a suitable location where he can unload.
Maximum size: 180mm including an extremely long tail.