SPECIES SPECIFIC CARE SHEET
Below is our current list of care sheets. Each sheet is compiled from both online sources and personal experience. Once an expert verifies the information, we’ll update its status. Keep in mind that you can find all of these details through a quick internet search, though your results may vary.
P. Vittata
Species Name: Poecilotheria vittata
Common Name(s): Pederson’s Ornamental Tarantula
Native Habitat:
Origin: Sri Lanka
Environment: Tropical rainforest regions with high humidity, warm temperatures, and dense vegetation
Natural Behavior: Arboreal—often found in tree holes, under loose bark, and within crevices
Enclosure Setup
Enclosure Size:
Arboreal Setup: A vertical enclosure approximately 12–18 inches in height for an adult, with width and depth at least equal to the tarantula’s leg span (adult leg span around 6–7 inches).
Provide good cross-ventilation to reduce mold and maintain healthy airflow.
Substrate:
Substrate Depth: 1–2 inches of coco fiber, topsoil, or a mix. While not heavy burrowers, a base layer keeps humidity stable.
Keep substrate slightly moist (not wet) to maintain moderate to high humidity.
Hides & Decor:
Include vertical structures like cork bark slabs, tubes, or branches for climbing and creating retreat spaces.
Additional plant cover (real or artificial) can help them feel secure.
Water Dish:
Provide a small, shallow water dish.
Change water regularly to keep it clean and fresh.
Environmental Conditions
Temperature:
Ideal Range: 75–85°F (24–29°C).
Avoid temperatures dropping below 70°F (21°C) for extended periods or exceeding the mid-80s°F.
Humidity:
Aim for around 70–80% humidity.
Mist the enclosure lightly once or twice a week if needed, but ensure good ventilation to prevent mold.
Monitor conditions with a reliable hygrometer.
Lighting:
No special lighting required.
Normal ambient room light is sufficient; bright or direct lighting can stress the spider.
Maintain a natural day/night cycle.
Feeding
Diet:
Primarily live feeder insects: gut-loaded crickets, roaches, or locusts.
Offer prey size slightly smaller than the spider’s body length.
Feeding Frequency:
Juveniles: Feed 1–2 times per week.
Adults: Feed every 1–2 weeks.
Remove uneaten prey within 24 hours to prevent stress.
General Care & Behavior
Temperament:
P. vittata is an Old World species known for being fast and defensive rather than overtly aggressive.
They lack urticating hairs and may rely on speed and a potent bite as defense.
Direct handling is strongly discouraged—use a catch cup and gentle herding with a soft brush if you must move it.
Handling:
Best avoided due to speed, skittishness, and more potent venom.
Routine enclosure maintenance should be done with caution and appropriate tools.
Molting:
Before molting, your spider may refuse food and become lethargic.
After molting, wait about a week or longer before feeding again to allow the fangs to harden.
Health Indicators:
A healthy P. vittata will have a well-rounded abdomen and actively use vertical surfaces.
Watch for lethargy, constant hiding, refusal to eat over a long period outside of pre-molt, or a shriveled abdomen as signs of potential issues.
If in doubt, seek advice from experienced keepers or an exotic veterinarian.
Maintenance
Cleaning:
Spot-clean uneaten prey and waste promptly.
Complete substrate changes are rarely needed unless mold or parasites appear.
Keep the water dish clean and filled.
Record Keeping:
Track feeding schedules, molts, and any behavioral changes.
Regular monitoring helps you fine-tune humidity, temperature, and feeding regimes.
Species-Specific Notes
P. vittata appreciates vertical hides and cover that mimic tree bark and hollow spaces.
Fast reactions and potent venom make it less suitable for beginners unless they are well-informed and cautious.
Ideal for experienced keepers interested in Old World arboreals with stunning patterns and colors.
T. Albopilosus
Species Name: Tliltocatl albopilosus (formerly Brachypelma albopilosum)
Common Name(s): Honduran Curly Hair Tarantula
Native Habitat:
Origin: Central America (Honduras, Nicaragua, and neighboring regions)
Environment: Tropical/subtropical habitats with moderate humidity and warm temperatures
Natural Behavior: Terrestrial—often found on or near the forest floor under logs, leaves, or natural debris
Enclosure Setup
Enclosure Size:
Terrestrial Setup: Floor space at least 3–4 times the tarantula’s leg span in length and width, with limited height to prevent injury from falls.
Provide secure ventilation to maintain healthy airflow and prevent mold.
Substrate:
Substrate Depth: Several inches (3–4 inches or more) of coco fiber or topsoil mix to allow light burrowing.
Keep substrate slightly moist but not wet; allow top layers to dry while maintaining subtle humidity below.
Hides & Decor:
Offer at least one suitable hide (cork bark half-log, hollow ceramic hide) for security.
Add leaf litter or smooth stones for aesthetics, ensuring no sharp edges.
Water Dish:
Provide a shallow water dish.
Refresh water regularly, keeping it clean and free of debris.
Environmental Conditions
Temperature:
Ideal Range: 70–80°F (21–27°C).
Ambient room temperature is typically sufficient; avoid prolonged drops below 65°F (18°C).
Humidity:
Aim for moderate humidity around 60–70%.
Light misting once or twice a week if needed, but ensure good ventilation to avoid mold.
Maintain a water dish and slightly damp lower substrate layers.
Lighting:
No special lighting required.
Normal ambient room light is fine.
Avoid bright, direct light shining continuously on the enclosure.
Feeding
Diet:
Feed live insects such as crickets, roaches, or mealworms.
Choose prey about the size of the tarantula’s abdomen or slightly smaller.
Feeding Frequency:
Juveniles: 1–2 times per week.
Adults: Every 1–2 weeks.
Remove uneaten prey after 24 hours to keep the enclosure clean and stress-free.
General Care & Behavior
Temperament:
T. albopilosus is known to be docile and calm, making it a great beginner species.
They rarely show defensive behavior unless provoked and may slowly move away rather than display aggression.
Handling:
While generally docile, handling should still be done carefully and close to a soft surface.
Use gentle techniques and a calm approach.
Avoid squeezing or trapping the tarantula, and limit handling sessions.
Molting:
Before molting, expect periods of fasting and possible hiding.
After molting, wait at least one week before offering food to allow the exoskeleton and fangs to harden.
Health Indicators:
A healthy T. albopilosus maintains a plump abdomen, shows steady (if not frequent) feeding habits, and is active at night.
Look out for lethargy, refusal to eat over long periods (outside of pre-molt), or a shrunken abdomen. Consult experienced keepers or an exotic veterinarian if concerned.
Maintenance
Cleaning:
Spot-clean leftover prey and waste promptly.
Full substrate changes are rarely needed; only if mold or pests appear.
Keep the water dish clean and filled.
Record Keeping:
Note feeding dates, molts, and enclosure maintenance.
Track temperature and humidity if desired, adjusting as needed.
Species-Specific Notes
The Honduran Curly Hair is often recommended for beginners due to its hardy nature, docile disposition, and forgiving care requirements.
It is a good “first tarantula” for those new to the hobby.
B. Hamorii
Species Name: Brachypelma hamorii
Common Name(s): Mexican Red-Knee Tarantula
Native Habitat:
Origin: Pacific coast of Mexico
Environment: Semi-desert scrubland with moderate seasonal humidity and warm temperatures
Natural Behavior: Terrestrial—commonly found on or near the ground under rocks, logs, or within shallow burrows
Enclosure Setup
Enclosure Size:
Terrestrial Setup: Floor space at least 3–4 times the tarantula’s leg span in length and width, with limited height to prevent injury from falls.
Ensure proper ventilation to maintain a clean, stable environment.
Substrate:
Substrate Depth: Several inches (3–4 inches or more) of a coco fiber or topsoil mix to allow for light burrowing.
Keep substrate slightly moist but not wet; top layers may dry out while maintaining subtle humidity in lower layers.
Hides & Decor:
Provide at least one suitable hide (cork bark half-log, clay pot) for security.
Smooth rocks or artificial plants can be included, ensuring no sharp edges.
Water Dish:
Offer a shallow water dish.
Change water regularly to keep it fresh and clean.
Environmental Conditions
Temperature:
Ideal Range: 70–80°F (21–27°C).
Normal room temperature is typically adequate; avoid extended periods below 65°F (18°C).
Humidity:
Aim for moderate humidity around 60–65%.
Light misting once or twice a week if needed, ensuring proper ventilation to prevent mold.
The presence of a water dish helps maintain humidity.
Lighting:
No special lighting required.
Ambient room lighting is sufficient.
Avoid direct, continuous bright light on the enclosure.
Feeding
Diet:
Live insects such as crickets, roaches, or mealworms.
Choose prey about the size of the spider’s abdomen or slightly smaller.
Feeding Frequency:
Juveniles: 1–2 times per week.
Adults: Every 1–2 weeks.
Remove uneaten prey after 24 hours to prevent stress and maintain cleanliness.
General Care & Behavior
Temperament:
B. hamorii is known for its generally docile nature, making it a popular beginner species.
They rarely show defensive behavior unless provoked and often remain calm when disturbed.
Handling:
If necessary, handle cautiously and close to a soft surface.
Use gentle techniques; avoid squeezing or restraining the tarantula.
Limit handling to reduce stress on the animal.
Molting:
Expect periods of fasting and reduced activity before molting.
After molting, wait about one week before feeding again to allow exoskeleton and fangs to harden.
Health Indicators:
A healthy B. hamorii maintains a plump abdomen and predictable feeding habits.
Watch for lethargy, long-term refusal of food (outside pre-molt), or a shrunken abdomen. Consult experienced keepers or an exotic veterinarian if concerned.
Maintenance
Cleaning:
Spot-clean uneaten prey and waste promptly.
Complete substrate changes are seldom needed; only if mold or pests appear.
Keep the water dish clean and filled.
Record Keeping:
Track feeding dates, molts, and any changes to the enclosure.
Monitor temperature and humidity levels if desired, adjusting as needed
Species-Specific Notes
The Mexican Red-Knee is iconic for its vibrant coloration and calm demeanor, making it a favorite among newcomers to the hobby.
It thrives under stable, moderate conditions and is generally forgiving to beginner mistakes.
A. Juruensis
Species Name: Avicularia juruensis
Common Name(s): Yellow-Banded Pinktoe Tarantula
Native Habitat:
Origin: South America (Amazon Basin regions)
Environment: Tropical rainforest with high humidity, warm temperatures, and abundant vegetation
Natural Behavior: Arboreal—commonly found in trees, often creating silk retreats in hollow spaces or among foliage
Enclosure Setup
Enclosure Size:
Arboreal Setup: A taller enclosure is preferred; at least 12–18 inches in height for an adult, with width and depth at least equal to the tarantula’s leg span.
Ensure good cross-ventilation to reduce stagnant air and prevent mold growth.
Substrate:
Substrate Depth: 1–2 inches of coco fiber or topsoil mix, primarily for maintaining humidity rather than burrowing.
Keep substrate slightly moist but not soaked.
Hides & Decor:
Provide vertical structures: cork bark tubes, branches, or artificial vines for climbing and web attachment.
Artificial or live plants can offer additional cover.
Water Dish:
A small, shallow water dish should be available.
Refresh water regularly, ensuring it remains clean.
Environmental Conditions
Temperature:
Ideal Range: 70–80°F (21–27°C).
Normal room temperature often suffices; avoid prolonged drops below 65°F (18°C).
Humidity:
Aim for higher humidity, around 70–80%.
Lightly mist the enclosure 1–2 times per week if needed, while maintaining adequate ventilation.
Monitor humidity with a hygrometer to prevent mold.
Lighting:
No special lighting is required.
Ambient room lighting is sufficient; avoid harsh, direct light.
Feeding
Diet:
Offer live insects such as crickets, roaches, or small locusts.
Prey size should be about the length of the tarantula’s abdomen or slightly smaller.
Feeding Frequency:
Juveniles: Feed 1–2 times per week.
Adults: Every 1–2 weeks.
Remove uneaten prey within 24 hours to maintain cleanliness and reduce stress.
General Care & Behavior
Temperament:
A. juruensis is generally docile but can be skittish.
Like other Avicularia species, it’s more inclined to leap or retreat than show defensive aggression.
Handling:
Handling is possible but should be approached with caution.
They may jump suddenly, so handle over a soft surface close to the ground.
Keep sessions brief to minimize stress.
Molting:
Before molting, expect reduced feeding and possibly more time spent in its silk retreat.
After molting, wait about a week before offering food to allow fangs and exoskeleton to harden.
Health Indicators:
A healthy A. juruensis shows steady, if not constant, feeding habits and maintains a plump abdomen.
Look for lethargy, prolonged refusal of food (outside pre-molt), or a shrunken abdomen as signs of potential issues. Consult experienced keepers or an exotic veterinarian if concerns arise.
Maintenance
Cleaning:
Spot-clean leftover prey and waste promptly.
Full substrate changes are rarely needed; only if mold or pests are observed.
Keep the water dish clean and filled.
Record Keeping:
Note feeding dates, molts, and any environmental adjustments.
Monitor humidity and temperature levels, making changes as necessary.
Species-Specific Notes
A. juruensis typically spins a tube-like silk retreat above ground level, so vertical fixtures are essential.
Proper humidity, ventilation, and vertical space are key to thriving in captivity.
P. Irminia
Species Name: Psalmopoeus irminia
Common Name(s): Venezuelan Sun Tiger Tarantula
Native Habitat:
Origin: Venezuela and surrounding regions in South America
Environment: Tropical rainforest with high humidity, warm temperatures, and dense foliage
Natural Behavior: Arboreal—often found in tree hollows, under loose bark, and within foliage
Enclosure Setup
Enclosure Size:
Arboreal Setup: A vertical enclosure of approximately 12–18 inches in height for an adult, with width and depth at least equal to the tarantula’s leg span.
Ensure adequate cross-ventilation to prevent mold and maintain healthy airflow.
Substrate:
Substrate Depth: 1–2 inches of coco fiber or topsoil mix, mainly to help maintain humidity.
Keep substrate slightly moist but not saturated.
Hides & Decor:
Provide vertical structures: cork bark tubes, branches, or artificial vines for climbing and creating a secure retreat.
Plant cover (artificial or live) can increase security and encourage natural behavior.
Water Dish:
Include a small, shallow water dish.
Change water regularly, keeping it clean and fresh.
Environmental Conditions
Temperature:
Ideal Range: 70–80°F (21–27°C).
Normal room temperature often suffices; avoid extended dips below 65°F (18°C).
Humidity:
Aim for 70–80% humidity.
Light misting 1–2 times weekly if needed; ensure proper ventilation to prevent mold.
Monitor humidity with a hygrometer and adjust as necessary.
Lighting:
No special lighting required.
Ambient room lighting is sufficient; avoid direct, harsh lighting.
Feeding
Diet:
Offer live insects such as crickets, roaches, or appropriately sized locusts.
Prey size should be about the length of the spider’s abdomen or slightly smaller.
Feeding Frequency:
Juveniles: Feed 1–2 times per week.
Adults: Every 1–2 weeks.
Remove uneaten prey within 24 hours to ensure a clean environment.
General Care & Behavior
Temperament:
P. irminia is known for being fast, elusive, and can be defensive if threatened.
They may retreat quickly to their hide or display threat postures if cornered.
Handling:
Handling is discouraged due to their speed, skittishness, and more potent Old World-like venom.
Use a catch cup and soft brush for maintenance tasks.
Molting:
Expect reduced feeding and increased reclusiveness before molting.
After molting, wait about a week before offering food again to allow the exoskeleton and fangs to harden.
Health Indicators:
A healthy P. irminia generally has a plump abdomen and normal feeding habits.
Look out for lethargy, refusal to eat outside of pre-molt, or a shrunken abdomen. Consult experienced keepers or an exotic veterinarian if issues arise.
Maintenance
Cleaning:
Spot-clean regularly to remove leftover prey and waste.
Full substrate changes are seldom needed; only if mold or pests appear.
Keep the water dish clean and replenished.
Record Keeping:
Track feeding, molts, and enclosure adjustments.
Monitor humidity and temperature, making necessary changes as needed.
Species-Specific Notes
P. irminia thrives in an environment with vertical retreat options.
Exercise caution during maintenance due to their speed and agility.
Best suited for keepers with some experience in handling fast, arboreal species.
C. Versicolor
Species Name: Caribena versicolor (formerly Avicularia versicolor)
Common Name(s): Antilles Pinktoe Tarantula
Native Habitat:
Origin: Martinique and surrounding Lesser Antilles islands in the Caribbean
Environment: Tropical rainforest with high humidity, warm temperatures, and lush vegetation
Natural Behavior: Arboreal—often found in trees, creating silk retreats in leaves or hollow spaces
Enclosure Setup
Enclosure Size:
Arboreal Setup: A vertical enclosure about 12–18 inches in height for an adult, with width and depth at least equal to the tarantula’s leg span.
Provide ample cross-ventilation to promote airflow and reduce mold risk.
Substrate:
Substrate Depth: 1–2 inches of coco fiber or topsoil mix, mainly for humidity retention.
Keep substrate slightly moist, not waterlogged.
Hides & Decor:
Include vertical structures: cork bark tubes, branches, or artificial vines for climbing and web-building.
Artificial or live plants can enhance security and encourage natural behaviors.
Water Dish:
Offer a small, shallow water dish.
Refresh water regularly, ensuring it remains clean.
Environmental Conditions
Temperature:
Ideal Range: 70–80°F (21–27°C).
Ambient room temperature is often adequate; avoid extended periods below 65°F (18°C).
Humidity:
Aim for about 70–80% humidity.
Light misting 1–2 times per week if needed, balanced with proper ventilation to prevent mold.
Use a hygrometer to monitor and adjust conditions accordingly.
Lighting:
No special lighting required.
Normal ambient room light is sufficient; avoid harsh, direct lighting.
Feeding
Diet:
Offer live insects such as crickets, roaches, or small locusts.
Prey size should be around the length of the tarantula’s abdomen or slightly smaller.
Feeding Frequency:
Juveniles: Feed 1–2 times per week.
Adults: Every 1–2 weeks.
Remove uneaten prey within 24 hours to maintain cleanliness and reduce stress.
General Care & Behavior
Temperament:
C. versicolor is generally considered docile but can be skittish and quick.
They are more likely to retreat or jump away rather than display aggression.
Handling:
If handling is attempted, do so gently and over a soft surface due to their tendency to jump.
Limit handling to reduce stress, and always approach calmly.
Molting:
Expect reduced feeding and increased seclusion before molting.
After molting, wait about a week before feeding again to allow the exoskeleton and fangs to harden.
Health Indicators:
A healthy C. versicolor maintains a plump abdomen and regular, if not continuous, feeding habits.
Monitor for lethargy, prolonged refusal of food (beyond pre-molt), or a shrunken abdomen. Seek advice from experienced keepers or an exotic veterinarian if necessary.
Maintenance
Cleaning:
Spot-clean to remove leftover prey and waste promptly.
Full substrate changes are rarely needed; only if mold or pests appear.
Keep the water dish clean and replenished.
Record Keeping:
Track feeding schedules, molts, and enclosure maintenance.
Monitor temperature and humidity, adjusting as needed.
Species-Specific Notes
C. versicolor is admired for its striking coloration, especially as juveniles (metallic blues) maturing into vibrant adults.
Adequate vertical space, proper humidity, and good ventilation are crucial for this species.
N. Chromatus
Species Name: Nhandu chromatus
Common Name(s): Brazilian Red and White Tarantula
Native Habitat:
Origin: Brazil and surrounding regions in South America
Environment: Tropical to subtropical forest edges and grasslands with moderate humidity and warm temperatures
Natural Behavior: Terrestrial—often found on the ground, sometimes near the base of vegetation or natural debris
Enclosure Setup
Enclosure Size:
Terrestrial Setup: Floor space at least 3–4 times the tarantula’s leg span in length and width, with limited enclosure height to reduce injury risk from falls.
Ensure adequate ventilation to maintain airflow and prevent mold.
Substrate:
Substrate Depth: Several inches (3–4 inches or more) of coco fiber or a topsoil mix to accommodate light burrowing or scraping.
Keep the substrate slightly moist but not saturated; allow partial drying on the surface.
Hides & Decor:
Provide at least one suitable hide (cork bark half-log, clay pot) for security.
Include decor like smooth rocks or artificial plants, ensuring no sharp edges.
Water Dish:
Offer a shallow water dish.
Refresh water regularly, keeping it clean and free of debris.
Environmental Conditions
Temperature:
Ideal Range: 70–80°F (21–27°C).
Typical room temperatures are usually sufficient; avoid extended drops below 65°F (18°C).
Humidity:
Aim for moderate humidity around 60–70%.
Light misting once or twice a week if needed, while ensuring proper ventilation to prevent mold.
The presence of a water dish helps maintain proper humidity.
Lighting:
No special lighting required.
Ambient room light is sufficient; avoid continuous bright, direct lighting.
Feeding
Diet:
Offer live insects such as crickets, roaches, or mealworms.
Prey size should be about equal to or slightly smaller than the spider’s abdomen.
Feeding Frequency:
Juveniles: Feed 1–2 times per week.
Adults: Every 1–2 weeks.
Remove uneaten prey after 24 hours to maintain cleanliness and minimize stress.
General Care & Behavior
Temperament:
N. chromatus can be skittish and sometimes defensive. It may show threat postures if disturbed.
They may flick urticating hairs when stressed.
Handling:
Handling is not recommended due to their defensive nature and potential hair flicking.
If moving is necessary, use a catch cup and soft brush for gentle herding.
Molting:
Reduced feeding and increased hiding often precede molting.
After molting, wait at least a week before offering food to allow the exoskeleton and fangs to harden.
Health Indicators:
A healthy N. chromatus typically has a well-rounded abdomen and steady feeding habits.
Watch for lethargy, refusal of food outside pre-molt periods, or a shriveled abdomen. Consult experienced keepers or an exotic veterinarian if concerned.
Maintenance
Cleaning:
Spot-clean leftover prey and waste promptly.
Full substrate changes are rarely needed; only if mold or pests appear.
Keep the water dish clean and filled.
Record Keeping:
Track feeding, molts, and enclosure maintenance.
Monitor temperature and humidity, adjusting conditions as necessary.
Species-Specific Notes
N. chromatus is known for its striking red and white coloration and somewhat more defensive demeanor.
Good for keepers who have some experience with New World species that possess urticating hairs.