Species library
255 species profiled with accurate care data. Click any species to start a specimen record pre-filled.
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🌍 TerrestrialPamphobeteus ultramarinus
Ultramarine Birdeater
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.
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🌍 TerrestrialPamphobeteus vespertinus
Ecuadorian Birdeater
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.
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🕳️ FossorialPelinobius muticus
King Baboon
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.
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🕳️ FossorialPhlogiellus baeri
Philippine Dwarf Tarantula
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.
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🌍 TerrestrialPhlogiellus johnreylazoi
Palawan Blue
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.
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🌍 TerrestrialPhlogiellus sp. Png
PNG Orange Pygmy
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.
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🌍 TerrestrialPhormictopus atrichomatus
Red Island Birdeater
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.
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🌍 TerrestrialPhormictopus auratus
Cuban Bronze
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.
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🌍 TerrestrialPhormictopus cancerides
Hispaniolan Giant / Haitian Brown
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.
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🌍 TerrestrialPhormictopus sp. Bayahibe
Bayahibe Red Birdeater
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.
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🌍 TerrestrialPhormictopus sp. Dominican Purple
Dominican Purple
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.
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🌍 TerrestrialPhormictopus sp. Green/Gold
Green Gold Birdeater
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.
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🌍 TerrestrialPhormictopus sp. Sabana
Sabana Red Birdeater
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.
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🌳 ArborealPhormingochilus arboricola
Borneo Black
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.
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🌳 ArborealPhormingochilus hatihati
Purple Earth Tiger
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.
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🌳 ArborealPhormingochilus pennellhewlettorum
Bario Bat-Eater
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.
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🌍 TerrestrialPhormingochilus sp. Sabah Blue
Sabah Blue Earth Tiger
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.
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🌳 ArborealPoecilotheria fasciata
Sri Lankan Ornamental
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.
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🌳 ArborealPoecilotheria formosa
Salem Ornamental
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.
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🌳 ArborealPoecilotheria hanumavilasumica
Rameshwaram Ornamental
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.
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🌳 ArborealPoecilotheria metallica
Gooty Sapphire Ornamental
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.
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🌳 ArborealPoecilotheria miranda
Bengal Spotted Ornamental
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.
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🌳 ArborealPoecilotheria ornata
Fringed Ornamental
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.
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🌳 ArborealPoecilotheria regalis
Indian Ornamental
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.
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🌳 ArborealPoecilotheria rufilata
Red Slate Ornamental
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.
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🌳 ArborealPoecilotheria striata
Mysore Ornamental
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.
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🌳 ArborealPoecilotheria subfusca
Ivory Ornamental
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.
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🌍 TerrestrialProceratophrys curvicorda
Curvicorda Earthtiger
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.
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🌳 ArborealPsalmopoeus cambridgei
Trinidad Chevron
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.
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🌳 ArborealPsalmopoeus irminia
Venezuelan Suntiger
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.