​Newly Discovered Beauty from Mexico – An Intriguing New Arboreal Species

​Psalmopoeus victori is a relatively new species in the hobby, discovered and described in 2014, originating from Mexico. Known as the Victoria Tarantula or P. victori, it stands out with its elegant, dark coloration and subtle reddish-orange accents, especially on its legs. Like other members of the genus Psalmopoeus, it is a fast and defensive species, intended for experienced keepers.

​Natural Habitat and Geographical Origin

​P. victori inhabits the humid tropical forests of Mexico, leading a typical arboreal lifestyle. It builds its web tunnels in tree hollows, under bark, or in dense thickets, which is typical for its genus.

​Morphology and Size

​Adult Psalmopoeus victori specimens reach a leg span of 14-16 cm (5.5-6.5 inches). Their body is slender, covered with dense, dark brown to black hairs, with delicate but visible reddish-orange hairs on the legs and sometimes on the abdomen. Younger specimens may be lighter, and their coloration darkens with age.

​Behavior and Temperament

​P. victori is a species known for its high speed and agility. It is a defensive spider that, when threatened, flees instantly, but if cornered, it will not hesitate to strike. Its venom is stronger than that of terrestrial New World tarantulas and can cause pain, numbness, and nausea, though it is usually not life-threatening. It does not possess urticating hairs. For this reason, direct contact with this species is not recommended, and all manipulations should be performed with the utmost caution.

​Feeding Habits

​In nature, their diet consists of insects and other small invertebrates that they hunt in the tree canopy. In home keeping, they should be fed appropriately sized feeder insects such as crickets, cockroaches (e.g., Turkish, Argentine), or locusts. Adults can be fed once a week or once every two weeks.

​Lifespan

​Female Psalmopoeus victori are long-lived and can live from 10 to 15 years in appropriate keeping conditions. Males have a significantly shorter lifespan, typically 2 to 4 years.

​Keeping Requirements

​Terrarium: Due to their arboreal lifestyle, a tall terrarium (so-called "arboreal") is necessary, with dimensions of at least 20x20x30 cm for juveniles and 30x30x45 cm or more for adults. Excellent ventilation is crucial.

​Decor: Provide numerous branches, pieces of bark, or bamboo tubes, which will serve as platforms for building nests and hiding.

​Substrate: A small layer of substrate (5-10 cm) at the bottom of the terrarium (e.g., coco fiber) will help maintain humidity.

​Temperature: The optimal temperature is 24-28°C.

​Humidity: Maintain high humidity at 70-85% by misting the terrarium daily.

​Water: A shallow water dish or regular misting of drops on the terrarium walls.

​Suitable for Hobbyists

​Psalmopoeus victori is a species intended exclusively for experienced and responsible keepers. Its extreme speed and defensiveness require the utmost caution, knowledge, and experience in safely handling tarantulas. It is not a species for beginners.

​Why Choose This Species?

​If you are an experienced keeper and are looking for a tarantula with elegant, classic coloration with subtle accents, dynamic behavior, and fascinating arboreal activity, the Victoria Tarantula is an ideal choice. It is an intriguing, relatively new species that will enrich your collection.

​The Burrow Predator – Strength, Speed, and Charm of the African Savanna

​Pterinochilus lugardi, originating from the arid and semi-arid regions of Southern Africa, is an intriguing tarantula that spends most of its life in elaborate burrow systems. Known as the Striped Baboon Tarantula or P. lugardi, it stands out with its earthy colors and distinctive patterns, perfectly camouflaging it in its natural environment. This is a species with a fast and defensive temperament, intended for experienced keepers.

​Natural Environment and Geographical Origin

​P. lugardi inhabits the dry savannas and bushlands of Southern Africa, including Botswana, Namibia, and Zimbabwe. It is a terrestrial (terrestrial-burrowing) species, digging deep and extensive tunnels that serve as its primary shelter and a trap for prey. This tarantula spends most of its time in its burrow, waiting for prey at the entrance.

​Morphology and Size

​Adult Pterinochilus lugardi individuals reach a leg span of up to 12-14 cm (5-5.5 inches). Their coloration is usually subdued, in shades of beige, brown, and grey, providing excellent camouflage. The abdomen features distinctive, darker, "striped" patterns (chevrons), and the legs have subtle striations. The body is covered with dense, short hairs.

​Behavior and Temperament

​P. lugardi is a species known for its high speed and defensiveness. It is a shy spider, but at the same time very prone to attack when threatened. It can make lightning-fast lunges and, like other Pterinochilus, emit loud hissing sounds (stridulation), which serve as a warning to intruders. Its venom is stronger than that of New World tarantulas and can cause significant pain, muscle cramps, numbness, as well as systemic symptoms that may persist for several days. Touching this species is absolutely not recommended, and all handling should be done with the utmost caution.

​Feeding Habits

​In nature, their diet consists of insects and small vertebrates that they hunt in or near their burrows. In captivity, they should be fed appropriately sized feeder insects, such as crickets, cockroaches (e.g., Turkistan roaches, Argentine roaches), or locusts. It is important that the food is live to stimulate the spider to hunt. Adult individuals can be fed once a week or once every two weeks.

​Lifespan

​Female Pterinochilus lugardi are relatively long-lived and can live from 10 to 15 years under appropriate captive conditions. Males have a significantly shorter lifespan, usually 3 to 5 years.

​Husbandry Requirements

​Terrarium: For an adult specimen, a terrarium of approximately 30x20x20 cm is sufficient. The depth of the substrate is crucial.

​Substrate: A very deep layer of substrate (at least 15-20 cm) should be provided, e.g., coconut fiber or loamy soil, to allow the spider to dig elaborate burrows. The substrate should be dry, with a slightly moist section.

​Temperature: The optimal temperature is 24-28°C.

​Humidity: Maintain moderate humidity at 60-70%. Misting parts of the substrate every few days is recommended, not drenching.

​Hide: A piece of bark or a ceramic cave can be placed to give it a starting point for digging. The spider will quickly create its own burrow system.

​Water: A shallow water dish should always be available.

​Suitable for Hobbyists

​Pterinochilus lugardi is a species intended exclusively for experienced keepers. Its speed, defensive nature, and potentially potent venom require the highest level of caution, knowledge, and experience in safe tarantula handling. This is not a species for beginners.

​Why Choose This Species?

​If you are an experienced keeper and are looking for a tarantula with a fascinating, hidden lifestyle, dynamic behavior, and the raw beauty of the African savanna, the Striped Baboon Tarantula is an excellent choice. Its burrow activity and predatory instinct make it one of the most intriguing species to observe.

Fiery Beauty and Turbulent Temperament – An Icon Among African Tarantulas

Pterinochilus murinus Usambara is one of the most recognizable and popular species varieties in the world of terraristics, originating from East Africa. Known as the Orange Usambara Baboon Spider (or Usambara Tiger Baboon Spider), it stands out with its bright, variable coloration in shades of orange and red, and a very fast and defensive temperament. This species is intended for experienced keepers who appreciate its beauty and dynamic nature.

Natural Habitat and Geographical Origin

P. murinus Usambara inhabits dry and semi-dry savannas and forests of Tanzania, especially the Usambara Mountains region. It leads a terrestrial lifestyle, digging deep and elaborate burrow systems that serve as shelter from predators and extreme temperatures.

Morphology and Size

Adult Pterinochilus murinus Usambara specimens reach a leg span of 12-15 cm (5-6 inches). Their coloration is highly variable, ranging from bright orange, through reddish-brown, to gray. A characteristic "tiger" pattern (chevrons) is often visible on the abdomen, and a "star" on the carapace. The entire body is covered with dense, short hairs. This color diversity makes each individual unique.

Behavior and Temperament

P. murinus Usambara is a species known for its extreme speed, defensiveness, and aggressiveness. It is very shy but also very prone to attacking when threatened. It can make sudden dashes and produce loud hissing sounds (stridulation). Its venom is stronger than that of New World tarantulas and can cause significant pain, numbness, muscle cramps, and systemic symptoms that can last for several days. It is absolutely not recommended to touch this species, and all manipulations should be carried out with the utmost caution, preferably using long tools.

Feeding Habits

In nature, their diet consists of insects and small vertebrates that they hunt in or near their burrows. In home breeding, they should be fed appropriately sized feeder insects, such as crickets, cockroaches (e.g., Turkish or Argentine cockroaches), or locusts. It is important that the food is alive and stimulates the spider to hunt. Adult specimens can be fed once a week or once every two weeks.

Lifespan

Female Pterinochilus murinus Usambara are relatively long-lived and can live from 10 to 15 years in appropriate breeding conditions. Males have a much shorter lifespan, typically 3 to 5 years.

Keeping Requirements

Terrarium: A terrarium of approximately 30x20x20 cm is sufficient for an adult specimen. Stable construction and good ventilation are important.

Substrate: A very deep layer of substrate (at least 15-20 cm), e.g., coco fiber or clay soil, should be provided to allow the spider to dig elaborate burrows. The substrate should be dry, with a slightly damp area.

Temperature: The optimal temperature is 24-28°C.

Humidity: Maintain moderate humidity at 60-70%. It is recommended to spray a part of the substrate every few days, not to flood it.

Hideout: Although the spider digs burrows, a piece of bark or a ceramic cave can be placed to give it a starting point for digging.

Water: A shallow water dish should always be available.

Suitable for Hobbyists

Pterinochilus murinus Usambara is a species intended exclusively for very experienced keepers. Its extreme speed, defensive temperament, and potentially potent venom require the highest caution, knowledge, and experience in safely handling tarantulas. This is not a species for beginners.

Why Choose This Species?

If you are an experienced keeper looking for a tarantula with spectacular, variable coloration, fascinating behavior, and a dynamic nature, the Orange Usambara Baboon Spider is an excellent choice. Its activity and beauty make it one of the most exciting species to observe, provided you have the appropriate experience.

Massive Central American Tarantula – A Calm Giant

​Sericopelma angustum, native to Panama, is a large and massive terrestrial tarantula, valued by breeders for its impressive size and generally calm temperament. Known as the Panamanian Brown Tarantula, it stands out with its dark, velvety coloration and robust body. This species has a relatively gentle disposition, making it a good choice for intermediate keepers.

​Natural Habitat and Geographical Origin

​S. angustum inhabits dry and semi-dry areas of Panama. It leads a terrestrial lifestyle, digging deep burrows in the ground or using natural crevices under rocks and roots as shelter.

​Morphology and Size

​Adult Sericopelma angustum specimens reach a leg span of up to 18-20 cm (7-8 inches). Their body is very massive and sturdily built, covered with dense, velvety black or dark brown hairs. The carapace is often slightly lighter, brown. The entire spider has a uniform, dark color, giving it a classic yet impressive appearance.

​Behavior and Character

​S. angustum is a species with a generally calm and stable temperament, although it is larger and more dynamic than typical Brachypelma. When threatened, it rarely shows aggression, preferring to flee or kick urticating hairs from its abdomen. These hairs can cause significant irritation and itching on human skin. Bites are rare, and their venom is mild and does not pose a serious medical threat to humans, comparable to a bee sting.

​Feeding Habits

​In nature, their diet consists of insects and other small invertebrates. In home captivity, they should be fed appropriately sized feeder insects, such as large crickets, cockroaches (e.g., Argentinian roaches), or locusts. Adults can be fed once a week or once every two weeks, and their appetite is impressive.

​Lifespan

​Female Sericopelma angustum are long-lived and can live for 15 to 20 years under optimal breeding conditions. Males have a significantly shorter lifespan, typically 3 to 5 years.

​Husbandry Requirements

​Terrarium: For an adult specimen, a spacious terrarium of at least 35x25x25 cm is required. Good ventilation is crucial.

​Substrate: A layer of substrate about 10-15 cm deep should be placed at the bottom of the terrarium, e.g., coconut fiber or a mixture of peat and vermiculite, which retains moisture well and allows for burrowing.

​Hide: A permanent, large hide should be provided (e.g., a piece of bark, a large coconut half, a ceramic pot).

​Temperature: The ideal temperature ranges from 24 to 28°C.

​Humidity: The recommended humidity is 70-80%. This can be maintained by misting part of the substrate every few days.

​Water: A shallow water dish should always be available and refilled regularly.

​Suitable for Hobbyists

​Sericopelma angustum is a species intended for intermediate keepers. Its impressive size, gentle nature, and resilience make it a satisfying and spectacular species to observe.

​Why Choose This Species?

​If you are looking for a tarantula of large, massive size, calm disposition, and impressive presence, which will be a stable and long-lived inhabitant of your collection, the Panamanian Brown Tarantula is an excellent choice.

Najszybszy nadrzewny ptasznik Afryki

Stromatopelma calceatum (ptasznik wiosłonogi) pochodzi z Afryki Zachodniej. Charakterystyczne, poszerzone stopy przypominające wiosła pozwalają mu błyskawicznie poruszać się po pionowych powierzchniach.

To gatunek o jadzie istotnym medycznie i temperamencie nieprzewidywalnym — łączy ogromną szybkość z gotowością do obrony.

Warunki hodowli

• Temperatura: 24–28 °C
• Wilgotność: 70–80%
• Typ: nadrzewny
• Terrarium: wysokie, z pionową tubą korkową i gęstą siecią

Charakter: ekstremalnie szybki i defensywny. Wyłącznie dla ekspertów z doświadczeniem w gatunkach Starego Świata. Nie jest to ptasznik do obserwacji z bliska ani do przenoszenia.

Pink Accents of the Giant – The Third King of the Tarantula World

Theraphosa apophysis, originating from the humid rainforests of Venezuela and Brazil, is another magnificent representative of the Theraphosa genus, known for its gigantic size. Called the Pinkfoot Goliath Tarantula, it stands out with delicate pink or purple accents on its legs, especially after a fresh molt, which distinguishes it from its blondi and stirmi cousins. This species is intended for experienced keepers who can meet its specific requirements.

Natural Habitat and Geographical Origin

T. apophysis inhabits the humid tropical forests of southern Venezuela and northern Brazil. Like other Theraphosa, it leads a terrestrial lifestyle, digging deep burrows in the ground or occupying abandoned burrows of other animals. Its environment is characterized by very high humidity and stable, warm temperatures.

Morphology and Size

Adult Theraphosa apophysis specimens reach a leg span of 22-28 cm (9-11 inches). Their body is massive, covered with dense, long hairs in shades of brown to black. The most distinctive features are the delicate but clear pink or purple hairs on the leg joints and around the chelicerae, which become more intense immediately after molting. It is an impressive and powerfully built tarantula that combines gigantic size with subtle elegance.

Behavior and Character

T. apophysis is generally a species with a moderately calm temperament, but due to its size and mass, it can be very defensive. Like other New World tarantulas, it can kick urticating hairs from its abdomen, which are very irritating and can cause severe itching and respiratory irritation. In a threatening situation, it can also make loud hissing sounds (stridulation) by rubbing its chelicerae and legs together. Bites are rare, and their venom is mild and does not pose a serious medical threat to humans, comparable to a wasp sting; however, due to the size of the chelicerae, a bite is painful.

Feeding Habits

In nature, their diet consists of large insects, lizards, frogs, and even small rodents and birds. In home keeping, adult specimens can be fed large crickets, roaches, locusts, and occasionally even pinky mice or small chicks. It is important not to overfeed the spider. Feeding once every 1-2 weeks is recommended.

Lifespan

Female Theraphosa apophysis are long-lived and can live from 15 to 20 years under optimal breeding conditions. Males have a significantly shorter lifespan, typically 3 to 5 years.

Husbandry Requirements

Terrarium: A very spacious terrarium, at least 50x40x40 cm, is required for an adult specimen. Excellent ventilation is crucial.

Substrate: A very deep layer of substrate (at least 20-25 cm), such as coco fiber or a mixture of peat and vermiculite, should be placed at the bottom of the terrarium. This substrate retains moisture well and allows for digging.

Temperature: The ideal temperature ranges from 24 to 28°C.

Humidity: The recommended humidity is 80-90%. This can be maintained by daily misting of the terrarium and providing constant access to a large water dish.

Hiding place: A permanent, sturdy hiding place (e.g., a large piece of bark, ceramic cave) should be provided to give the spider a sense of security.

Water: A large, shallow water dish should always be available and regularly refilled.

Suitable for Hobbyists

Theraphosa apophysis is a species intended for experienced keepers. Its specific humidity requirements, sensitivity to stress, as well as its size and potential defensive strength, make it unsuitable for beginners. It requires regular attention and an appropriate environment.

Why Choose This Species?

If you are an experienced keeper and are looking for one of the largest spiders on Earth, with a majestic presence and unique pink accents on its legs, the Pinkfoot Goliath Tarantula is an excellent choice. Its impressive size and unique coloring make it one of the most fascinating and desired species for observation.