{"product_id":"phormictopus-auratus-ptasznik-kubanski-zloty","title":"Phormictopus Auratus: Cuban Bronze Tarantula","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cb style=\"color: rgb(78, 86, 95);\"\u003eGolden Gleam from Cuba – A Rare and Striking Terrestrial Giant\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003ePhormictopus auratus, native to Cuba, is one of the most dazzling and sought-after tarantulas from the genus Phormictopus. Known as the Cuban Golden Tarantula or P. auratus, it stands out with its vibrant, metallic golden coloration on its carapace and legs, which beautifully contrasts with its darker abdomen. This is a powerful species with a generally defensive temperament, intended for intermediate and experienced keepers who appreciate extraordinary beauty.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eNatural Habitat and Geographical Origin\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eP. auratus is endemic to Cuba, inhabiting dry and semi-dry scrublands and open forests. It leads a terrestrial lifestyle, digging deep burrows in the ground or using natural crevices and tree roots as shelter. Its environment is characterized by high temperatures and variable humidity.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eMorphology and Size\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eAdult Phormictopus auratus specimens reach a leg span of 16-18 cm (6.5-7 inches). Their bodies are massive, covered with dense hairs. The carapace and legs shimmer with a vibrant, metallic golden color, making it one of the most spectacular tarantulas. The abdomen is usually dark brown or black, with delicate lighter hairs. This is a powerfully built tarantula that captivates with its lustrous coloration.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eBehavior and Temperament\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eP. auratus is a powerful species with a moderately defensive temperament. It is a spider that can be quite nervous and reacts quickly when threatened. 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. Bites are rare, and their venom is mild, posing no serious medical threat to humans, comparable to a wasp sting. Due to its size and strength, caution should be exercised during handling.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eFeeding Habits\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIn the wild, their diet consists of large insects and other invertebrates. In home captivity, adult specimens can be fed large crickets, cockroaches (e.g., Turkish, Argentine), or locusts. It is important not to overfeed the spider. Feeding once a week or once every two weeks is recommended.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eLifespan\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eFemale Phormictopus auratus 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.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eHusbandry Requirements\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eTerrarium:\u003c\/b\u003e For an adult specimen, a spacious terrarium of at least 30x30x30 cm is required. Good ventilation is crucial.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eSubstrate:\u003c\/b\u003e A layer of substrate about 15-20 cm deep, such as coco fiber or a mix of coco fiber and vermiculite, should be placed at the bottom of the terrarium. This retains moisture well and allows for burrowing.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eTemperature:\u003c\/b\u003e The ideal temperature ranges from 24 to 28°C.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eHumidity:\u003c\/b\u003e Recommended humidity is 70-80%. This can be maintained by misting part of the substrate and providing constant access to a water dish.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eHide:\u003c\/b\u003e A permanent hide (e.g., a piece of bark, half a coconut) should be provided to give the spider a sense of security.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eWater:\u003c\/b\u003e A shallow water dish should always be available and regularly refilled.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eSuitable for Hobbyists\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003ePhormictopus auratus is a good choice for intermediate and experienced keepers who are looking for a large tarantula with spectacular, rare coloration. Its size, activity, and potential speed make it a satisfying addition to any collection. However, the urticating hairs should be kept in mind.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eWhy Choose This Species?\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIf you are looking for a majestic tarantula of impressive size, unusual, metallic golden coloration, and dynamic behavior, the Cuban Golden Tarantula is an excellent choice. It is a true treasure that will certainly enrich your collection.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SpidersManiac","offers":[{"title":"4D\/C ♀️","offer_id":55892211532153,"sku":"SM-PHORAURA-40-F","price":220.0,"currency_code":"PLN","in_stock":false},{"title":"4dc ♂️","offer_id":55892211564921,"sku":"SM-PHORAURA-40-M","price":110.0,"currency_code":"PLN","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0934\/0531\/5449\/files\/72721ca9dc0c2cc26f8befac94541ba4.jpg?v=1759091401","url":"https:\/\/spidersmaniac.pl\/en\/products\/phormictopus-auratus-ptasznik-kubanski-zloty","provider":"SpidersManiac","version":"1.0","type":"link"}