Species library

255 species profiled with accurate care data. Click any species to start a specimen record pre-filled.

⇄ Compare
+ Request a species

We research every request and write a full care guide if it is added.

Clear
  • Pamphobeteus ultramarinus

    Pamphobeteus ultramarinus

    Ultramarine Birdeater

    🌍 Terrestrial
    Intermediate Requires consistent husbandry - more sensitive to ventilation, humidity, or feeding schedule. Some experience recommended. 🌍 Terrestrial Lives on or near the ground. Needs floor space more than height. Falls from height can be fatal - keep décor low. 🌎 New World From the Americas: can flick urticating (irritating) hairs as a first defence, and venom is generally milder. 💨 Skittish Easily startled - may bolt or dart suddenly when disturbed. Secure lids are essential as they can be escape artists. ⚠️ Flicks hairs Uses urticating (barbed) hairs on the abdomen as a primary defence. These hairs can cause skin irritation and must be kept away from eyes. New World species only.
    Temp
    22-28°C
    Humidity
    60-75%
    Adult DLS
    22-26 cm
    Moult
    Sling ~3w - Adult ~12mo

    Blue leg pampho - large terrestrial; deep substrate, water dish, 70-75% humidity. Recent described species; standard genus care.

  • Pamphobeteus vespertinus

    Pamphobeteus vespertinus

    Ecuadorian Birdeater

    🌍 Terrestrial
    Intermediate Requires consistent husbandry - more sensitive to ventilation, humidity, or feeding schedule. Some experience recommended. 🌍 Terrestrial Lives on or near the ground. Needs floor space more than height. Falls from height can be fatal - keep décor low. 🌎 New World From the Americas: can flick urticating (irritating) hairs as a first defence, and venom is generally milder. 💨 Skittish Easily startled - may bolt or dart suddenly when disturbed. Secure lids are essential as they can be escape artists. ⚠️ Flicks hairs Uses urticating (barbed) hairs on the abdomen as a primary defence. These hairs can cause skin irritation and must be kept away from eyes. New World species only.
    Temp
    22-28°C
    Humidity
    60-75%
    Adult DLS
    22-26 cm
    Moult
    Sling ~3w - Adult ~12mo

    Ecuadorian purple - large terrestrial; deep substrate, damp corner, 70-75% humidity. Bold hair-kicker.

  • Pelinobius muticus

    Pelinobius muticus

    King Baboon

    🕳️ Fossorial
    Advanced Demanding or potentially dangerous. May be very fast, defensive, or have medically significant venom. Experienced keepers only. 🕳️ Fossorial Lives underground in deep burrows. Needs deep, packed substrate to dig. You may rarely see them - patience required. 🌍 Old World From Africa, Asia or Australasia: no urticating hairs - defence is speed and a potent bite. Medically significant venom possible. 🔴 Aggressive Actively moves toward perceived threats rather than retreating. May bite without much provocation. Experienced keepers only - always use tools, never hands. ☠️ Potent venom Possesses medically significant venom. A bite can cause intense pain, muscle cramps, sweating, and may require medical attention. Old World species typically fall here as they lack urticating hairs. ⚠️ Defensive Will adopt a threat posture (rearing up, showing fangs) when disturbed. May bite if provoked. Approach with care and use a catch cup for rehoming.
    Temp
    24-28°C
    Humidity
    65-75%
    Adult DLS
    19-23 cm
    Moult
    Sling ~3w - Adult ~15mo

    Massive rust-brown African obligate burrower with huge rear legs for digging. Slow-growing; provide deep dry substrate.

  • Phlogiellus baeri

    Phlogiellus baeri

    Philippine Dwarf Tarantula

    🕳️ Fossorial
    Advanced Demanding or potentially dangerous. May be very fast, defensive, or have medically significant venom. Experienced keepers only. 🕳️ Fossorial Lives underground in deep burrows. Needs deep, packed substrate to dig. You may rarely see them - patience required. 🌍 Old World From Africa, Asia or Australasia: no urticating hairs - defence is speed and a potent bite. Medically significant venom possible. ⚠️ Defensive Will adopt a threat posture (rearing up, showing fangs) when disturbed. May bite if provoked. Approach with care and use a catch cup for rehoming. ☠️ Potent venom Possesses medically significant venom. A bite can cause intense pain, muscle cramps, sweating, and may require medical attention. Old World species typically fall here as they lack urticating hairs. ⚡ Fast Moves very quickly, especially when startled. Can cross an enclosure in the blink of an eye. Not recommended for handling. 🕸️ Heavy webber Dense, prolific webbing behaviour. Will carpet the entire enclosure in thick silk - this is normal and healthy. Provides a visual indicator of the spider's territory.
    Temp
    24-28°C
    Humidity
    70-80%
    Adult DLS
    9-11 cm
    Moult
    Sling ~3w - Adult ~6mo

    Small but mighty Asian fossorial. Defensive and quick - a niche collector species.

  • Phlogiellus johnreylazoi
    🌍 Terrestrial
    Intermediate Requires consistent husbandry - more sensitive to ventilation, humidity, or feeding schedule. Some experience recommended. 🌍 Terrestrial Lives on or near the ground. Needs floor space more than height. Falls from height can be fatal - keep décor low. 🌍 Old World From Africa, Asia or Australasia: no urticating hairs - defence is speed and a potent bite. Medically significant venom possible. ⚠️ Defensive Will adopt a threat posture (rearing up, showing fangs) when disturbed. May bite if provoked. Approach with care and use a catch cup for rehoming. 🕸️ Heavy webber Dense, prolific webbing behaviour. Will carpet the entire enclosure in thick silk - this is normal and healthy. Provides a visual indicator of the spider's territory. Old world
    Temp
    20-25°C
    Humidity
    70-80%
    Adult DLS
    9-12 cm
    Moult
    Sling ~3w - Adult ~9mo

    The Palawan Blue (Phlogiellus johnreylazoi - trade lists drop the final "i") - a solid-blue Philippine dwarf-ish earth tiger, heavy webbing, "moody" disposition, and famously one of the milder-venomed Old World genera (Phlogiellus lack the maxillary lyra). Described in 2016 from Brooke's Point, Palawan, with first UK captive-bred slings at £45. Cool-tolerant at 20-25 °C and a characterful web-architect for intermediate Old World keepers.

  • Phlogiellus sp. Png

    Phlogiellus sp. Png

    PNG Orange Pygmy

    🌍 Terrestrial
    Advanced Demanding or potentially dangerous. May be very fast, defensive, or have medically significant venom. Experienced keepers only. 🌍 Terrestrial Lives on or near the ground. Needs floor space more than height. Falls from height can be fatal - keep décor low. 🌍 Old World From Africa, Asia or Australasia: no urticating hairs - defence is speed and a potent bite. Medically significant venom possible. ⚠️ Defensive Will adopt a threat posture (rearing up, showing fangs) when disturbed. May bite if provoked. Approach with care and use a catch cup for rehoming. ⚡ Fast Moves very quickly, especially when startled. Can cross an enclosure in the blink of an eye. Not recommended for handling. 🕸️ Heavy webber Dense, prolific webbing behaviour. Will carpet the entire enclosure in thick silk - this is normal and healthy. Provides a visual indicator of the spider's territory. Old world
    Temp
    24-26°C
    Humidity
    70-80%
    Adult DLS
    8-10 cm
    Moult
    Sling ~3w - Adult ~9mo

    The PNG Orange Pygmy - an undescribed Papuan Phlogiellus with an orange body and patterned carapace, new to the UK via wild-caught sub-adults (£45). Known as "Nippers" at the vendor for good reason: bite-prone even by Old World standards, so respect is non-negotiable. Being WC stock, quarantine matters - hydrate well, check for parasites, and feed lightly at first. A compact, colourful project species for advanced keepers who like their tarantulas with attitude.

  • Phormictopus atrichomatus

    Phormictopus atrichomatus

    Red Island Birdeater

    🌍 Terrestrial
    Intermediate Requires consistent husbandry - more sensitive to ventilation, humidity, or feeding schedule. Some experience recommended. 🌍 Terrestrial Lives on or near the ground. Needs floor space more than height. Falls from height can be fatal - keep décor low. 🌎 New World From the Americas: can flick urticating (irritating) hairs as a first defence, and venom is generally milder. ⚠️ Defensive Will adopt a threat posture (rearing up, showing fangs) when disturbed. May bite if provoked. Approach with care and use a catch cup for rehoming. ⚠️ Flicks hairs Uses urticating (barbed) hairs on the abdomen as a primary defence. These hairs can cause skin irritation and must be kept away from eyes. New World species only. ⚡ Fast Moves very quickly, especially when startled. Can cross an enclosure in the blink of an eye. Not recommended for handling.
    Temp
    22-27°C
    Humidity
    65-75%
    Adult DLS
    15-20 cm
    Moult
    Sling ~3w - Adult ~9mo

    Hispaniola birdeater - "Red Island" refers to its Dominican/Haitian home. Deep chocolate base beneath a wash of coppery-red setae, with a bright metallic carapace sheen after a moult, reaching an impressive 15-20 cm. Fast-growing, bold and quick to kick hairs: a look-but-don't-handle display species for keepers with a bit of experience.

  • Phormictopus auratus

    Phormictopus auratus

    Cuban Bronze

    🌍 Terrestrial
    Intermediate Requires consistent husbandry - more sensitive to ventilation, humidity, or feeding schedule. Some experience recommended. 🌍 Terrestrial Lives on or near the ground. Needs floor space more than height. Falls from height can be fatal - keep décor low. 🌎 New World From the Americas: can flick urticating (irritating) hairs as a first defence, and venom is generally milder. 💨 Skittish Easily startled - may bolt or dart suddenly when disturbed. Secure lids are essential as they can be escape artists. ⚠️ Flicks hairs Uses urticating (barbed) hairs on the abdomen as a primary defence. These hairs can cause skin irritation and must be kept away from eyes. New World species only.
    Temp
    22-28°C
    Humidity
    60-75%
    Adult DLS
    19-23 cm
    Moult
    Sling ~3w - Adult ~12mo

    Cuban bronze - large terrestrial, deep substrate, water dish, hide. 70-75% humidity. Bold hair-kicker with a strong feeding response.

  • Phormictopus cancerides

    Phormictopus cancerides

    Hispaniolan Giant / Haitian Brown

    🌍 Terrestrial
    Intermediate Requires consistent husbandry - more sensitive to ventilation, humidity, or feeding schedule. Some experience recommended. 🌍 Terrestrial Lives on or near the ground. Needs floor space more than height. Falls from height can be fatal - keep décor low. 🌎 New World From the Americas: can flick urticating (irritating) hairs as a first defence, and venom is generally milder. ⚠️ Defensive Will adopt a threat posture (rearing up, showing fangs) when disturbed. May bite if provoked. Approach with care and use a catch cup for rehoming. ⚠️ Flicks hairs Uses urticating (barbed) hairs on the abdomen as a primary defence. These hairs can cause skin irritation and must be kept away from eyes. New World species only. 🍽️ Voracious eater Aggressive feeding response. Will tackle prey eagerly and rarely refuses a meal. Adjust feeding schedule accordingly - overfeeding shortens lifespan.
    Temp
    24-28°C
    Humidity
    70-80%
    Adult DLS
    17-21 cm
    Moult
    Sling ~3w - Adult ~9mo

    Large purple-metallic carapace and an appetite to match. Bold and quick to flick hairs or posture when disturbed.

  • Phormictopus sp. Bayahibe

    Phormictopus sp. Bayahibe

    Bayahibe Red Birdeater

    🌍 Terrestrial
    Beginner Forgiving of common mistakes. Tolerant of temperature/humidity variation. Great first tarantula. 🌍 Terrestrial Lives on or near the ground. Needs floor space more than height. Falls from height can be fatal - keep décor low. 🌎 New World From the Americas: can flick urticating (irritating) hairs as a first defence, and venom is generally milder. 🟢 Docile Generally slow-moving and tolerant of handling. Rarely threatens or bites. Great for beginners. 🍽️ Voracious eater Aggressive feeding response. Will tackle prey eagerly and rarely refuses a meal. Adjust feeding schedule accordingly - overfeeding shortens lifespan. ⚠️ Flicks hairs Uses urticating (barbed) hairs on the abdomen as a primary defence. These hairs can cause skin irritation and must be kept away from eyes. New World species only.
    Temp
    22-27°C
    Humidity
    65-75%
    Adult DLS
    18-20 cm
    Moult
    Sling ~3w - Adult ~10mo

    The Bayahibe Red Birdeater - an undescribed Dominican Phormictopus from Bayahibe town, nearest relative of the familiar cancerides/ atrichomatus pair and wearing the classic purple-red metallic sheen. Big, hungry, and docile-but-flicky: the Caribbean birdeater formula at 18-20 cm. £30 for 2 cm slings; a lesser-seen island form for collectors of the group.

  • Phormictopus sp. Dominican Purple
    🌍 Terrestrial
    Intermediate Requires consistent husbandry - more sensitive to ventilation, humidity, or feeding schedule. Some experience recommended. 🌍 Terrestrial Lives on or near the ground. Needs floor space more than height. Falls from height can be fatal - keep décor low. 🌎 New World From the Americas: can flick urticating (irritating) hairs as a first defence, and venom is generally milder. 💨 Skittish Easily startled - may bolt or dart suddenly when disturbed. Secure lids are essential as they can be escape artists. ⚠️ Flicks hairs Uses urticating (barbed) hairs on the abdomen as a primary defence. These hairs can cause skin irritation and must be kept away from eyes. New World species only.
    Temp
    22-28°C
    Humidity
    60-75%
    Adult DLS
    22-26 cm
    Moult
    Sling ~3w - Adult ~12mo

    Dominican purple (undescribed form) - large terrestrial like other Phormictopus: deep substrate, water dish, 70-75% humidity.

  • Phormictopus sp. Green/Gold

    Phormictopus sp. Green/Gold

    Green Gold Birdeater

    🌍 Terrestrial
    Beginner Forgiving of common mistakes. Tolerant of temperature/humidity variation. Great first tarantula. 🌍 Terrestrial Lives on or near the ground. Needs floor space more than height. Falls from height can be fatal - keep décor low. 🌎 New World From the Americas: can flick urticating (irritating) hairs as a first defence, and venom is generally milder. Nervous ⚠️ Flicks hairs Uses urticating (barbed) hairs on the abdomen as a primary defence. These hairs can cause skin irritation and must be kept away from eyes. New World species only. 🍽️ Voracious eater Aggressive feeding response. Will tackle prey eagerly and rarely refuses a meal. Adjust feeding schedule accordingly - overfeeding shortens lifespan.
    Temp
    24-26°C
    Humidity
    60-70%
    Adult DLS
    17-20 cm
    Moult
    Sling ~3w - Adult ~10mo

    The Green Gold Birdeater - a green-bodied, gold-carapaced Dominican Phormictopus so rarely seen that vendors joke about trading "all our magic beans" for stock. Same big hungry birdeater biology as its siblings in a fresher colourway, slightly warmer and drier on the care panel, and genuinely scarce at £20 slings. Size expectations unconfirmed by the vendor themselves - a collector's gamble worth taking.

  • Phormictopus sp. Sabana

    Phormictopus sp. Sabana

    Sabana Red Birdeater

    🌍 Terrestrial
    Beginner Forgiving of common mistakes. Tolerant of temperature/humidity variation. Great first tarantula. 🌍 Terrestrial Lives on or near the ground. Needs floor space more than height. Falls from height can be fatal - keep décor low. 🌎 New World From the Americas: can flick urticating (irritating) hairs as a first defence, and venom is generally milder. 🟢 Docile Generally slow-moving and tolerant of handling. Rarely threatens or bites. Great for beginners. 🍽️ Voracious eater Aggressive feeding response. Will tackle prey eagerly and rarely refuses a meal. Adjust feeding schedule accordingly - overfeeding shortens lifespan. ⚠️ Flicks hairs Uses urticating (barbed) hairs on the abdomen as a primary defence. These hairs can cause skin irritation and must be kept away from eyes. New World species only.
    Temp
    22-27°C
    Humidity
    65-75%
    Adult DLS
    18-20 cm
    Moult
    Sling ~3w - Adult ~10mo

    The Sabana Red Birdeater - the red-phase Dominican Phormictopus sharing the Bayahibe husbandry template: purple-red metallic sheen, 18-20 cm, hungry and docile-but-flicky. £40 for 2 cm slings. Another island undescribed waiting for formal attention - buy from trusted lineages and enjoy one of the glossiest birdeaters in the trade.

  • Phormingochilus arboricola
    🌳 Arboreal
    Advanced Demanding or potentially dangerous. May be very fast, defensive, or have medically significant venom. Experienced keepers only. 🌳 Arboreal Lives above ground in trees or plants. Needs height and vertical climbing surfaces. Secure lid essential - they climb glass. 🌍 Old World From Africa, Asia or Australasia: no urticating hairs - defence is speed and a potent bite. Medically significant venom possible. ⚠️ Defensive Will adopt a threat posture (rearing up, showing fangs) when disturbed. May bite if provoked. Approach with care and use a catch cup for rehoming. ⚡ Fast Moves very quickly, especially when startled. Can cross an enclosure in the blink of an eye. Not recommended for handling. 🕸️ Heavy webber Dense, prolific webbing behaviour. Will carpet the entire enclosure in thick silk - this is normal and healthy. Provides a visual indicator of the spider's territory. Old world
    Temp
    21-26°C
    Humidity
    75-85%
    Adult DLS
    15-18 cm
    Moult
    Sling ~3w - Adult ~9mo

    The Borneo Black (Phormingochilus arboricola, described 2015 as a Lampropelma subspecies, raised to full species in 2019) - a jet-black, long-legged arboreal ornithoctonine with tiger-striped abdomen and stout front legs. Classic tree-tiger package: defensive bursts, medically significant venom, and gorgeous web tubes up any vertical cork you provide. Surprisingly cheap for such an impressive animal (£9 slings) and the most available entry into the genus.

  • Phormingochilus hatihati

    Phormingochilus hatihati

    Purple Earth Tiger

    🌳 Arboreal
    Advanced Demanding or potentially dangerous. May be very fast, defensive, or have medically significant venom. Experienced keepers only. 🌳 Arboreal Lives above ground in trees or plants. Needs height and vertical climbing surfaces. Secure lid essential - they climb glass. 🌍 Old World From Africa, Asia or Australasia: no urticating hairs - defence is speed and a potent bite. Medically significant venom possible. ⚠️ Defensive Will adopt a threat posture (rearing up, showing fangs) when disturbed. May bite if provoked. Approach with care and use a catch cup for rehoming. ⚡ Fast Moves very quickly, especially when startled. Can cross an enclosure in the blink of an eye. Not recommended for handling. ☠️ Potent venom Possesses medically significant venom. A bite can cause intense pain, muscle cramps, sweating, and may require medical attention. Old World species typically fall here as they lack urticating hairs. 🕸️ Heavy webber Dense, prolific webbing behaviour. Will carpet the entire enclosure in thick silk - this is normal and healthy. Provides a visual indicator of the spider's territory.
    Temp
    24-28°C
    Humidity
    70-80%
    Adult DLS
    13-15 cm
    Moult
    Sling ~3w - Adult ~10mo

    Sulawesi earth tiger with a violet-purple sheen on the legs and carapace, freshest just after a moult. Described in 2024 from West Sulawesi - the only Phormingochilus east of the Wallace Line. Fast, defensive, potent Old World arboreal: tall setup with vertical cork, 70-80% humidity, strong cross-ventilation, and unusually deep substrate for a tree spider because slings and juveniles burrow before moving up into tree holes as adults.

  • Phormingochilus pennellhewlettorum
    🌳 Arboreal
    Advanced Demanding or potentially dangerous. May be very fast, defensive, or have medically significant venom. Experienced keepers only. 🌳 Arboreal Lives above ground in trees or plants. Needs height and vertical climbing surfaces. Secure lid essential - they climb glass. 🌍 Old World From Africa, Asia or Australasia: no urticating hairs - defence is speed and a potent bite. Medically significant venom possible. ⚠️ Defensive Will adopt a threat posture (rearing up, showing fangs) when disturbed. May bite if provoked. Approach with care and use a catch cup for rehoming. ⚡ Fast Moves very quickly, especially when startled. Can cross an enclosure in the blink of an eye. Not recommended for handling. 🕸️ Heavy webber Dense, prolific webbing behaviour. Will carpet the entire enclosure in thick silk - this is normal and healthy. Provides a visual indicator of the spider's territory. Old world
    Temp
    20-25°C
    Humidity
    70-80%
    Adult DLS
    13-16 cm
    Moult
    Sling ~4w - Adult ~10mo

    The Bario Bat-Eater (Phormingochilus pennellhewlettorum, 2015) - a HIGHLAND tree tiger from the Kelabit Highlands of Sarawak, named for the Pennell-Hewlett family ("Jaman's Tree Tiger" honours a Bario village elder). Cooler-kept than its lowland cousins, which suits British houses perfectly. Defensive, agile, medically significant venom - a true advanced keeper's arboreal, rarely bred and priced at £45 a sling when CB stock appears.

  • Phormingochilus sp. Sabah Blue

    Phormingochilus sp. Sabah Blue

    Sabah Blue Earth Tiger

    🌍 Terrestrial
    Advanced Demanding or potentially dangerous. May be very fast, defensive, or have medically significant venom. Experienced keepers only. 🌍 Terrestrial Lives on or near the ground. Needs floor space more than height. Falls from height can be fatal - keep décor low. 🌍 Old World From Africa, Asia or Australasia: no urticating hairs - defence is speed and a potent bite. Medically significant venom possible. ⚠️ Defensive Will adopt a threat posture (rearing up, showing fangs) when disturbed. May bite if provoked. Approach with care and use a catch cup for rehoming. ⚡ Fast Moves very quickly, especially when startled. Can cross an enclosure in the blink of an eye. Not recommended for handling. 🕸️ Heavy webber Dense, prolific webbing behaviour. Will carpet the entire enclosure in thick silk - this is normal and healthy. Provides a visual indicator of the spider's territory. Old world
    Temp
    20-24°C
    Humidity
    70-80%
    Adult DLS
    18-21 cm
    Moult
    Sling ~3w - Adult ~9mo

    The Sabah Blue Earth Tiger - the most sought-after undescribed Phormingochilus: blue-grey legs on a brown tree-tiger frame at a whopping 20 cm, field-documented around 2015 and in the hobby since 2017. A defensive speed demon with a near-mythical reputation and a premium price (£60 slings) to match. Cool-kept (20-24 °C), deep-webbed and strictly for experienced Old World keepers - but the adult colour makes it a grail worth the discipline.

  • Poecilotheria fasciata

    Poecilotheria fasciata

    Sri Lankan Ornamental

    🌳 Arboreal
    Advanced Demanding or potentially dangerous. May be very fast, defensive, or have medically significant venom. Experienced keepers only. 🌳 Arboreal Lives above ground in trees or plants. Needs height and vertical climbing surfaces. Secure lid essential - they climb glass. 🌍 Old World From Africa, Asia or Australasia: no urticating hairs - defence is speed and a potent bite. Medically significant venom possible. ⚠️ Defensive Will adopt a threat posture (rearing up, showing fangs) when disturbed. May bite if provoked. Approach with care and use a catch cup for rehoming. ⚡ Fast Moves very quickly, especially when startled. Can cross an enclosure in the blink of an eye. Not recommended for handling. ☠️ Potent venom Possesses medically significant venom. A bite can cause intense pain, muscle cramps, sweating, and may require medical attention. Old World species typically fall here as they lack urticating hairs.
    Temp
    22-28°C
    Humidity
    70-85%
    Adult DLS
    14-17 cm
    Moult
    Sling ~3w - Adult ~12mo

    Sri Lankan ornamental - tall arboreal (30x30x45) with vertical cork bark tube and strong cross-ventilation. 70-80% humidity; slings burrow until ~4th instar then climb.

  • Poecilotheria formosa

    Poecilotheria formosa

    Salem Ornamental

    🌳 Arboreal
    Advanced Demanding or potentially dangerous. May be very fast, defensive, or have medically significant venom. Experienced keepers only. 🌳 Arboreal Lives above ground in trees or plants. Needs height and vertical climbing surfaces. Secure lid essential - they climb glass. 🌍 Old World From Africa, Asia or Australasia: no urticating hairs - defence is speed and a potent bite. Medically significant venom possible. ⚠️ Defensive Will adopt a threat posture (rearing up, showing fangs) when disturbed. May bite if provoked. Approach with care and use a catch cup for rehoming. ⚡ Fast Moves very quickly, especially when startled. Can cross an enclosure in the blink of an eye. Not recommended for handling. ☠️ Potent venom Possesses medically significant venom. A bite can cause intense pain, muscle cramps, sweating, and may require medical attention. Old World species typically fall here as they lack urticating hairs. 🕸️ Heavy webber Dense, prolific webbing behaviour. Will carpet the entire enclosure in thick silk - this is normal and healthy. Provides a visual indicator of the spider's territory.
    Temp
    24-28°C
    Humidity
    65-75%
    Adult DLS
    14-18 cm
    Moult
    Sling ~3w - Adult ~8mo

    Grey-and-black banded arboreal Poecilotheria. Fast and defensive like others of the genus.

  • Poecilotheria hanumavilasumica

    Poecilotheria hanumavilasumica

    Rameshwaram Ornamental

    🌳 Arboreal
    Advanced Demanding or potentially dangerous. May be very fast, defensive, or have medically significant venom. Experienced keepers only. 🌳 Arboreal Lives above ground in trees or plants. Needs height and vertical climbing surfaces. Secure lid essential - they climb glass. 🌍 Old World From Africa, Asia or Australasia: no urticating hairs - defence is speed and a potent bite. Medically significant venom possible. ⚠️ Defensive Will adopt a threat posture (rearing up, showing fangs) when disturbed. May bite if provoked. Approach with care and use a catch cup for rehoming. ⚡ Fast Moves very quickly, especially when startled. Can cross an enclosure in the blink of an eye. Not recommended for handling. ☠️ Potent venom Possesses medically significant venom. A bite can cause intense pain, muscle cramps, sweating, and may require medical attention. Old World species typically fall here as they lack urticating hairs.
    Temp
    22-28°C
    Humidity
    70-85%
    Adult DLS
    14-17 cm
    Moult
    Sling ~3w - Adult ~12mo

    Rameshwaram ornamental - tall arboreal with cork tubes and strong cross-ventilation. 70-80% humidity, 24-28 C. Provide multiple hiding spots behind cork.

  • Poecilotheria metallica

    Poecilotheria metallica

    Gooty Sapphire Ornamental

    🌳 Arboreal
    Advanced Demanding or potentially dangerous. May be very fast, defensive, or have medically significant venom. Experienced keepers only. 🌳 Arboreal Lives above ground in trees or plants. Needs height and vertical climbing surfaces. Secure lid essential - they climb glass. 🌍 Old World From Africa, Asia or Australasia: no urticating hairs - defence is speed and a potent bite. Medically significant venom possible. ⚠️ Defensive Will adopt a threat posture (rearing up, showing fangs) when disturbed. May bite if provoked. Approach with care and use a catch cup for rehoming. ⚡ Fast Moves very quickly, especially when startled. Can cross an enclosure in the blink of an eye. Not recommended for handling. ☠️ Potent venom Possesses medically significant venom. A bite can cause intense pain, muscle cramps, sweating, and may require medical attention. Old World species typically fall here as they lack urticating hairs. 🕸️ Heavy webber Dense, prolific webbing behaviour. Will carpet the entire enclosure in thick silk - this is normal and healthy. Provides a visual indicator of the spider's territory.
    Temp
    22-26°C
    Humidity
    60-75%
    Adult DLS
    14-17 cm
    Moult
    Sling ~3w - Adult ~8mo

    Electric metallic blue with yellow bands. Critically endangered in the wild; prefers cooler temps than other Poecilotheria.

  • Poecilotheria miranda

    Poecilotheria miranda

    Bengal Spotted Ornamental

    🌳 Arboreal
    Advanced Demanding or potentially dangerous. May be very fast, defensive, or have medically significant venom. Experienced keepers only. 🌳 Arboreal Lives above ground in trees or plants. Needs height and vertical climbing surfaces. Secure lid essential - they climb glass. 🌍 Old World From Africa, Asia or Australasia: no urticating hairs - defence is speed and a potent bite. Medically significant venom possible. ⚠️ Defensive Will adopt a threat posture (rearing up, showing fangs) when disturbed. May bite if provoked. Approach with care and use a catch cup for rehoming. ⚡ Fast Moves very quickly, especially when startled. Can cross an enclosure in the blink of an eye. Not recommended for handling. ☠️ Potent venom Possesses medically significant venom. A bite can cause intense pain, muscle cramps, sweating, and may require medical attention. Old World species typically fall here as they lack urticating hairs.
    Temp
    22-28°C
    Humidity
    70-85%
    Adult DLS
    14-17 cm
    Moult
    Sling ~3w - Adult ~12mo

    Bengal spotted - tall arboreal with vertical cork and cross-ventilation. 70-80% humidity, 24-28 C. Heavy feeder; adults take large prey weekly.

  • Poecilotheria ornata

    Poecilotheria ornata

    Fringed Ornamental

    🌳 Arboreal
    Advanced Demanding or potentially dangerous. May be very fast, defensive, or have medically significant venom. Experienced keepers only. 🌳 Arboreal Lives above ground in trees or plants. Needs height and vertical climbing surfaces. Secure lid essential - they climb glass. 🌍 Old World From Africa, Asia or Australasia: no urticating hairs - defence is speed and a potent bite. Medically significant venom possible. ⚠️ Defensive Will adopt a threat posture (rearing up, showing fangs) when disturbed. May bite if provoked. Approach with care and use a catch cup for rehoming. ⚡ Fast Moves very quickly, especially when startled. Can cross an enclosure in the blink of an eye. Not recommended for handling. ☠️ Potent venom Possesses medically significant venom. A bite can cause intense pain, muscle cramps, sweating, and may require medical attention. Old World species typically fall here as they lack urticating hairs.
    Temp
    22-28°C
    Humidity
    70-85%
    Adult DLS
    14-17 cm
    Moult
    Sling ~3w - Adult ~12mo

    Fringed ornamental - one of the largest pokies. Tall 45 cm-high enclosure with thick vertical cork, strong cross-ventilation, 70-80% humidity. Defensive - not for beginners.

  • Poecilotheria regalis

    Poecilotheria regalis

    Indian Ornamental

    🌳 Arboreal
    Advanced Demanding or potentially dangerous. May be very fast, defensive, or have medically significant venom. Experienced keepers only. 🌳 Arboreal Lives above ground in trees or plants. Needs height and vertical climbing surfaces. Secure lid essential - they climb glass. 🌍 Old World From Africa, Asia or Australasia: no urticating hairs - defence is speed and a potent bite. Medically significant venom possible. ⚠️ Defensive Will adopt a threat posture (rearing up, showing fangs) when disturbed. May bite if provoked. Approach with care and use a catch cup for rehoming. ⚡ Fast Moves very quickly, especially when startled. Can cross an enclosure in the blink of an eye. Not recommended for handling. ☠️ Potent venom Possesses medically significant venom. A bite can cause intense pain, muscle cramps, sweating, and may require medical attention. Old World species typically fall here as they lack urticating hairs. 🕸️ Heavy webber Dense, prolific webbing behaviour. Will carpet the entire enclosure in thick silk - this is normal and healthy. Provides a visual indicator of the spider's territory.
    Temp
    24-28°C
    Humidity
    65-75%
    Adult DLS
    15-19 cm
    Moult
    Sling ~3w - Adult ~8mo

    Black-and-white banded legsl with a vivid yellow face. Fast, strong bite, slit-webber. The most popular Poecilotheria.

  • Poecilotheria rufilata

    Poecilotheria rufilata

    Red Slate Ornamental

    🌳 Arboreal
    Advanced Demanding or potentially dangerous. May be very fast, defensive, or have medically significant venom. Experienced keepers only. 🌳 Arboreal Lives above ground in trees or plants. Needs height and vertical climbing surfaces. Secure lid essential - they climb glass. 🌍 Old World From Africa, Asia or Australasia: no urticating hairs - defence is speed and a potent bite. Medically significant venom possible. ⚠️ Defensive Will adopt a threat posture (rearing up, showing fangs) when disturbed. May bite if provoked. Approach with care and use a catch cup for rehoming. ⚡ Fast Moves very quickly, especially when startled. Can cross an enclosure in the blink of an eye. Not recommended for handling. ☠️ Potent venom Possesses medically significant venom. A bite can cause intense pain, muscle cramps, sweating, and may require medical attention. Old World species typically fall here as they lack urticating hairs.
    Temp
    22-28°C
    Humidity
    70-85%
    Adult DLS
    14-17 cm
    Moult
    Sling ~3w - Adult ~12mo

    Redslate ornamental - large southern Indian arboreal. Tall enclosure, thick cork, good airflow, 70-80% humidity. Fast and defensive.

  • Poecilotheria striata

    Poecilotheria striata

    Mysore Ornamental

    🌳 Arboreal
    Advanced Demanding or potentially dangerous. May be very fast, defensive, or have medically significant venom. Experienced keepers only. 🌳 Arboreal Lives above ground in trees or plants. Needs height and vertical climbing surfaces. Secure lid essential - they climb glass. 🌍 Old World From Africa, Asia or Australasia: no urticating hairs - defence is speed and a potent bite. Medically significant venom possible. ⚠️ Defensive Will adopt a threat posture (rearing up, showing fangs) when disturbed. May bite if provoked. Approach with care and use a catch cup for rehoming. ⚡ Fast Moves very quickly, especially when startled. Can cross an enclosure in the blink of an eye. Not recommended for handling. ☠️ Potent venom Possesses medically significant venom. A bite can cause intense pain, muscle cramps, sweating, and may require medical attention. Old World species typically fall here as they lack urticating hairs. 🕸️ Heavy webber Dense, prolific webbing behaviour. Will carpet the entire enclosure in thick silk - this is normal and healthy. Provides a visual indicator of the spider's territory.
    Temp
    24-28°C
    Humidity
    65-75%
    Adult DLS
    14-18 cm
    Moult
    Sling ~3w - Adult ~8mo

    Yellow-and-black arboreal from south-west India. Bold and fast - secure the lid.

  • Poecilotheria subfusca

    Poecilotheria subfusca

    Ivory Ornamental

    🌳 Arboreal
    Advanced Demanding or potentially dangerous. May be very fast, defensive, or have medically significant venom. Experienced keepers only. 🌳 Arboreal Lives above ground in trees or plants. Needs height and vertical climbing surfaces. Secure lid essential - they climb glass. 🌍 Old World From Africa, Asia or Australasia: no urticating hairs - defence is speed and a potent bite. Medically significant venom possible. ⚠️ Defensive Will adopt a threat posture (rearing up, showing fangs) when disturbed. May bite if provoked. Approach with care and use a catch cup for rehoming. ⚡ Fast Moves very quickly, especially when startled. Can cross an enclosure in the blink of an eye. Not recommended for handling. ☠️ Potent venom Possesses medically significant venom. A bite can cause intense pain, muscle cramps, sweating, and may require medical attention. Old World species typically fall here as they lack urticating hairs. 🕸️ Heavy webber Dense, prolific webbing behaviour. Will carpet the entire enclosure in thick silk - this is normal and healthy. Provides a visual indicator of the spider's territory.
    Temp
    20-24°C
    Humidity
    65-75%
    Adult DLS
    13-15 cm
    Moult
    Sling ~3w - Adult ~8mo

    Highland Poecilotheria preferring cooler temperatures. Pale ivory carapace with dark abdominal bands.

  • Proceratophrys curvicorda

    Proceratophrys curvicorda

    Curvicorda Earthtiger

    🌍 Terrestrial
    Intermediate Requires consistent husbandry - more sensitive to ventilation, humidity, or feeding schedule. Some experience recommended. 🌍 Terrestrial Lives on or near the ground. Needs floor space more than height. Falls from height can be fatal - keep décor low. 🌎 New World From the Americas: can flick urticating (irritating) hairs as a first defence, and venom is generally milder. ⚠️ Defensive Will adopt a threat posture (rearing up, showing fangs) when disturbed. May bite if provoked. Approach with care and use a catch cup for rehoming. ⚠️ Flicks hairs Uses urticating (barbed) hairs on the abdomen as a primary defence. These hairs can cause skin irritation and must be kept away from eyes. New World species only. 🍽️ Voracious eater Aggressive feeding response. Will tackle prey eagerly and rarely refuses a meal. Adjust feeding schedule accordingly - overfeeding shortens lifespan.
    Temp
    24-28°C
    Humidity
    70-80%
    Adult DLS
    20-24 cm
    Moult
    Sling ~3w - Adult ~12mo

    Large blonde-bodied terrestrial - rare in the UK hobby but occasionally available from specialist breeders.

  • Psalmopoeus cambridgei

    Psalmopoeus cambridgei

    Trinidad Chevron

    🌳 Arboreal
    Intermediate Requires consistent husbandry - more sensitive to ventilation, humidity, or feeding schedule. Some experience recommended. 🌳 Arboreal Lives above ground in trees or plants. Needs height and vertical climbing surfaces. Secure lid essential - they climb glass. 🌎 New World From the Americas: can flick urticating (irritating) hairs as a first defence, and venom is generally milder. ⚡ Fast Moves very quickly, especially when startled. Can cross an enclosure in the blink of an eye. Not recommended for handling. 💨 Skittish Easily startled - may bolt or dart suddenly when disturbed. Secure lids are essential as they can be escape artists. ⚠️ Defensive Will adopt a threat posture (rearing up, showing fangs) when disturbed. May bite if provoked. Approach with care and use a catch cup for rehoming. 🕸️ Heavy webber Dense, prolific webbing behaviour. Will carpet the entire enclosure in thick silk - this is normal and healthy. Provides a visual indicator of the spider's territory. 🍽️ Voracious eater Aggressive feeding response. Will tackle prey eagerly and rarely refuses a meal. Adjust feeding schedule accordingly - overfeeding shortens lifespan.
    Temp
    24-28°C
    Humidity
    65-80%
    Adult DLS
    13-15 cm
    Moult
    Sling ~3w - Adult ~5mo

    Chevron-marked legs and an appetite to match its speed. Heavy webber; build height into the enclosure.

  • Psalmopoeus irminia

    Psalmopoeus irminia

    Venezuelan Suntiger

    🌳 Arboreal
    Intermediate Requires consistent husbandry - more sensitive to ventilation, humidity, or feeding schedule. Some experience recommended. 🌳 Arboreal Lives above ground in trees or plants. Needs height and vertical climbing surfaces. Secure lid essential - they climb glass. 🌎 New World From the Americas: can flick urticating (irritating) hairs as a first defence, and venom is generally milder. ⚡ Fast Moves very quickly, especially when startled. Can cross an enclosure in the blink of an eye. Not recommended for handling. 💨 Skittish Easily startled - may bolt or dart suddenly when disturbed. Secure lids are essential as they can be escape artists. ⚠️ Defensive Will adopt a threat posture (rearing up, showing fangs) when disturbed. May bite if provoked. Approach with care and use a catch cup for rehoming. 🕸️ Heavy webber Dense, prolific webbing behaviour. Will carpet the entire enclosure in thick silk - this is normal and healthy. Provides a visual indicator of the spider's territory.
    Temp
    24-28°C
    Humidity
    65-80%
    Adult DLS
    13-15 cm
    Moult
    Sling ~3w - Adult ~5mo

    Striking orange "sunburst" on a black abdomen. Fast, defensive, and a powerful jumper - secure the lid.