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.
