Mastigoproctus Giganteus (Giant Vinegaroon) Sub-Adult/Adult

Mastigoproctus Giganteus (Giant Vinegaroon) Sub-Adult/Adult - Image is for illustration purposes only!

Housing
- Enclosure: A 10-gallon terrarium is adequate for a single Giant Vinegaroon. They are ground-dwelling creatures, so floor space is more important than height. Ensure the enclosure has a secure lid as they can climb.
- Substrate: Use a mix of coconut fiber and moistened soil to allow for burrowing. The substrate should be at least 4 inches deep. Vinegaroons enjoy digging and hiding, so provide an environment that mimics their natural habitat.
- Humidity: Maintain high humidity levels, around 70-80%, by misting the enclosure regularly. However, ensure there is good ventilation to prevent mold and bacterial growth.
- Temperature: A temperature gradient of 24-29°C (75-85°F) during the day, with a slight drop at night, is ideal. You can use a heat mat placed on one side of the terrarium to achieve this.

Feeding
- Diet: Feed your Vinegaroon a variety of insects such as crickets, roaches, and mealworms. Adults can be fed 2-3 times a week, depending on the size of the prey. Ensure the prey items are appropriately sized (not too large for the Vinegaroon to handle).
- Water: Provide a shallow water dish with fresh water at all times. It's crucial for hydration and helps maintain humidity.

General Care
- Handling: While Vinegaroons are not aggressive, they can become stressed with excessive handling. If you need to handle your pet, do so gently and infrequently.
- Shelter: Offer hiding spots such as cork bark, hollow logs, or PVC pipes. These provide a sense of security and mimic natural hiding places.
- Molting: Like other arthropods, Vinegaroons molt as they grow. During this time, they may hide more frequently and eat less. Ensure the humidity is slightly higher to facilitate a successful molt.

Social Needs
- Mastigoproctus gigantea are solitary animals and should be kept alone. Housing them with others can lead to stress and aggression.

Safety Note
- When threatened, Vinegaroons can spray acetic acid (vinegar) as a defense mechanism. While not harmful, it can be irritating, especially to the eyes and mucous membranes. Always wash your hands after handling or working in the terrarium.