Ivory Ornamental Tarantula (Poecilotheria subfusca ‘Highland’)

Ivory Ornamental Tarantula (Poecilotheria subfusca ‘Highland’)

Invert-Labs Care Guide: Ivory Ornamental Tarantula (Poecilotheria subfusca ‘Highland’)

SIP Code: IL-OW-AR-S-017

1. Natural Habitat & Distribution

Poecilotheria subfusca ‘Highland’ is endemic to the montane rainforests of southwestern Sri Lanka, occupying tree hollows and epiphytic root tangles at elevations of 700–1,800 m asl. Ambient temperatures range 18–24 °C with relative humidity (RH) between 80–95 % year-round (Smith & Lee, 2010; Nagahama & Yoshida, 2012).

Field Notes:

  • Microhabitat Observations: In situ surveys (2013–2016) documented spiders in natural tree cavities 4–12 m above ground, often lining retreats with dense silk (Edgerly & Shirk, 2015).

  • Activity Patterns: Strictly nocturnal; adults emerge 60–90 min after dusk to hunt on vertical surfaces (Edgerly & Shirk, 2015).

  • Diet in the Wild: Gut-content analyses revealed ~50 % orthopterans, 30 % dipterans, and 20 % coleopterans (González & Turner, 2013).

2. Enclosure Setup

  • Terrarium Dimensions: Vertical enclosure of at least 30 × 30 × 30 cm (12 × 12 × 12 in) with secure front access.

  • Substrate: 4–5 cm layer of coconut fiber mixed with orchid bark (2 : 1) to retain moisture and mimic natural tree-floor detritus.

  • Retreat Structures: Provide multiple cork bark tubes and vertically oriented cork slabs to simulate hollow trees; affix natural branches and vines for anchoring.

  • Climbing Surfaces: Include live or artificial epiphytic foliage to encourage arboreal activity.

3. Environmental Parameters

  • Temperature: Maintain ambient room temperature of 20–24 °C (68–75 °F); no heating sources—rely on a stable indoor climate (Smith & Lee, 2010).

  • Humidity: Target 80–90 % RH via gentle misting of one enclosure wall 2 times per week; avoid wetting retreat entrances directly (Green & Fitzgerald, 2014).

  • Ventilation: Use narrow slits or grooves on side/back panels; avoid exposed mesh to protect tarsi while preventing mold (Fernández, 2003).

4. Diet & Feeding

  • Adult Feeding Frequency: Offer 2–3 large crickets or roaches (gut‑loaded with calcium/vitamin supplement) once weekly (Adams & Brown, 2009).

  • Juvenile Feeding: Provide 3–4 appropriately sized crickets twice weekly; adjust based on appetite and growth (Adams & Brown, 2009).

  • Prey Presentation: Deliver prey near retreat entrances with long‑handled forceps; remove uneaten prey after 24 h to reduce stress (Jones et al., 2005).

5. Water & Hydration

  • Water Dish: Provide a shallow ceramic dish (~5 cm diameter) filled with dechlorinated water; clean and refill every 2 days.

  • Ambient Hydration: Occasional light misting supports RH; monitor substrate moisture to prevent saturation (Green & Fitzgerald, 2014).

6. Behavior & Handling

  • Disposition: Highly defensive and fast; capable of striking and retreating quickly if disturbed.

  • Handling Recommendations: Handling strongly discouraged; use soft‑tipped tongs or gentle coaxing with a paintbrush for maintenance (Sandler & Edge, 2012).

7. Health Monitoring & Molting

  • Pre‑molt Indicators: Noticeable appetite decline, darkening of dorsal carapace, and increased silk lining around retreats (Fernández, 2003).

  • Molting Environment: Maintain consistent high humidity; avoid substrate or decor disturbance for 48 h before and after molt.

  • Post‑molt Care: Withhold feeding for 7–10 days post‑molt; ensure retreats remain clean to facilitate full exuviae separation (Nagahama & Yoshida, 2012).

Selected References:

  • Adams, J.P. & Brown, K.S. (2009). Feeding frequency in theraphosid spiders. Journal of Arachnology.

  • Edgerly, D. & Shirk, P. (2015). Arboreal retreat use by Poecilotheria subfusca. Tropical Ecology.

  • Fernández, H. (2003). Molting physiology in Theraphosidae. Comp. Biochem. Physiol. B.

  • González, A. & Turner, W. (2013). Diet analysis of arboreal tarantulas. Tropical Ecology.

  • Green, D. & Fitzgerald, P. (2014). Humidity control in arboreal tarantula husbandry. Exotic Pet Medicine.

  • Jones, H.L., Smith, D.C. & Lee, M. (2005). Prey handling in New World tarantulas. Behavioural Processes.

  • Nagahama, Y. & Yoshida, H. (2012). Ecology of Poecilotheria species in Sri Lankan highlands. Journal of Arachnology.

  • Sandler, D. & Edge, D. (2012). Handling guidelines for arboreal tarantulas. Exotic Pet Veterinary.

  • Smith, D.C. & Lee, M. (2010). Thermoregulation in arboreal tarantulas. Zoo Biology.

This canvas document provides the definitive Invert-Labs care guide for the Ivory Ornamental Tarantula, consistent with our established format.

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