Poecilotheria smithi
Yellow-backed Ornamental
Quick Facts
Adult Size
6-7 inches
Growth Rate
fast
Temperament
fast and defensive; enthusiastic feeder
Taxonomy
Community
Experience Required
Advanced
Experienced keepers only
🌡️ Climate Requirements
Temperature Range
75°F - 82°F
(24°C - 28°C)
Humidity Range
65% - 75%
🏠 Enclosure Sizes
Adult
12x12x18 inches (vertical)
🪨 Substrate
Type
vertical cork retreat; light substrate; cross-ventilation; shallow water dish
Depth
2-3 inches
🍽️ Feeding Schedule
Adult
1 prey per week
💧 Additional Care Notes
Water Dish
Required
Webbing
moderate
Burrowing
No
🕷️ Behavior & Temperament
General Temperament
fast and defensive; enthusiastic feeder
Care Guide
A rare and highly sought Sri Lankan ornamental with striking yellow dorsal coloration; also one of the most endangered tarantulas offered in the hobby, so buy captive-bred and be mindful of provenance. Strictly advanced: full Poecilotheria speed and defensiveness plus medically significant Old World venom and no urticating hairs. Tall enclosure with a vertical cork retreat and strong cross-ventilation, light misting every 1-2 weeks, and a shallow water dish. An enthusiastic feeder — always use long tongs and never handle.
⚠️ 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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