Poecilotheria rufilata
✓ VerifiedRed Slate Ornamental Tarantula, Rufous Ornamental
B a y L e e ' s 8 Legged Art, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Quick Facts
Adult Size
7-9 inches
Growth Rate
fast
Temperament
defensive, fast
Taxonomy
Community
Experience Required
Advanced
Experienced keepers only
🌡️ Climate Requirements
Temperature Range
75°F - 85°F
(24°C - 29°C)
Humidity Range
70% - 80%
🏠 Enclosure Sizes
Sling
Small arboreal vial with cross ventilation
Juvenile
6x6x10" vertical
Adult
18x18x24" vertical
🪨 Substrate
Type
moist coco fiber (base humidity source)
Depth
2-3 inches
🍽️ Feeding Schedule
Sling
Every 4-5 days
Juvenile
Once per week
Adult
Every 1-2 weeks
Prey Size
Appropriately sized prey (up to 2/3 body length)
💧 Additional Care Notes
Water Dish
Required
Webbing
heavy
Burrowing
No
🕷️ Behavior & Temperament
General Temperament
defensive, fast
Care Guide
**Red Slate Ornamental Tarantula** — One of the largest Poecilotheria species, with a distinctive red-slate underside pattern and bold yellow-and-black dorsal banding. A truly large arboreal — females can approach 9 inches.
⚠️ MEDICALLY SIGNIFICANT VENOM: All Poecilotheria species possess venom that has caused documented systemic reactions including severe muscle cramps, palpitations, and hospitalization. These are not beginner or intermediate species. Bite reports are serious and sometimes require medical treatment. Treat with full Old World respect.
⚠️ CONSERVATION: All Poecilotheria species are listed on CITES Appendix II. Ensure any specimens are legally sourced captive-bred animals.
Provide a large vertical enclosure with cork bark flats and hollow logs for retreats. Keep cross-ventilated, warm, and moderately humid. A fast grower and reliable feeder. The largest and most impressive of the Poecilotheria genus.
⚠️ Safety Information
Urticating Hairs
This species does not have urticating hairs (Old World species).
Venom Potency
⚠️ WARNING: This species has medically significant venom. Bites can cause severe pain and systemic effects. Only for experienced keepers. Seek immediate medical attention if bitten.
Species Statistics
0
Total Keepers
N/A
Community Rating
Advanced
Care Level
🕷️
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