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.
