Psalmopoeus Irminia -Venezuelan Sun Tiger Tarantula (Sling)

SIP Code: IL-NW-AR-S-009
Scientific Name: Psalmopoeus irminia (Saager, 1994)
Common Names: Venezuelan Sun Tiger Tarantula

Shipping Monday – Wednesday

Origin / Habitat

Native to Venezuela and parts of northern Guyana. Found in tropical lowland forests where it lives in hollow trees, dense vegetation, and crevices between bark layers. The natural habitat is warm, humid, and shaded, with steady airflow beneath the forest canopy.

Category

New World Arboreal

Adult Size

Females: 5 – 6 in (12 – 15 cm) leg span
Males: smaller, longer-legged

Temperament / Behavior

Fast, secretive, and defensive when cornered. This species prefers retreating into its web tube but will threat posture or bite if pressed. It exhibits strong feeding responses and heavy webbing. Known for its striking black-and-orange patterning and vivid abdominal markings, especially under natural light.

Recommended Enclosure

Vertical arboreal enclosure (~12–14 in tall) with a large cork bark slab or hollow tube for retreat. Provide artificial foliage or branches for security and web attachment. Substrate should be lightly moist, with excellent ventilation to prevent stagnation.

Temperature & Humidity

Temperature: 75 – 82 °F (24 – 28 °C)
Humidity: 70 – 80 % RH
Ventilation: High — warm, moist air with cross-flow

Diet / Feeding Frequency

Slings: Flightless fruit flies or micro crickets 2–3× per week
Juveniles: Small crickets or roach nymphs twice weekly
Adults: Medium crickets or dubia roaches once weekly
Remove uneaten prey within 24 hours.

Growth Rate & Lifespan

Fast-growing species. Females mature in ~2 years and live 10 – 12 years; males live 3 – 4 years post-maturity.

Handling / Caution

Handling not recommended. P. irminia is extremely quick and prone to sudden bursts of speed. Use long tools and allow the spider to retreat before servicing the enclosure.

Invert-Labs – Summary

The Venezuelan Sun Tiger is one of the most vivid arboreal tarantulas available, combining bold coloration with dynamic web architecture. It thrives in tall, well-ventilated enclosures with secure retreats and consistent humidity. A rewarding challenge for intermediate to advanced keepers familiar with fast-moving arboreals.

Care Snapshot

Difficulty: Intermediate to Advanced
Temperament: Defensive / Fast
Enclosure: Arboreal
Temperature: 75 – 82 °F
Humidity: 70 – 80 %
Growth / Lifespan: Fast | 10 – 12 yrs (female)

Beginner Guidance

Not suitable for beginners. Maintain tall enclosures with cross-ventilation and stable humidity. Avoid handling — focus on creating a secure, calm environment for natural behavior.