Antillena rickwesti
Hispaniolan Pinktoe
Fukushima CS, Bertani R (2017) Taxonomic revision and cladistic analysis of Avicularia Lamarck, 1818 (Araneae, Theraphosidae, Aviculariinae) with description of three new aviculariine genera. ZooKeys 659: 1-185. https://doi.org/10.3897/zookeys.659.10717, CC BY 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Quick Facts
Adult Size
3.5-4.5 inches
Growth Rate
medium
Temperament
arboreal, retreat-builder
Taxonomy
Community
Experience Required
Intermediate
Some experience recommended
🌡️ Climate Requirements
Temperature Range
75–80°F
(24–27°C)
Humidity Range
70% - 80%
🏠 Enclosure Sizes
Adult
12x12x18 inches (vertical)
🪨 Substrate
Type
coco fiber, lightly moist; vertical cork bark + foliage; strong cross-ventilation
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
arboreal, retreat-builder
Care Guide
A small Caribbean arboreal endemic to Hispaniola — black abdomen with pink setae and a leaf-patterned carapace, building silk retreats against tree trunks/cork. Standard pinktoe care: vertical setup, light moisture, water dish. Strong cross-ventilation is essential for this group — stagnant, overly wet air (not low humidity) is the usual cause of sudden 'Avic' losses. Has urticating hairs but rarely kicks them; it would sooner bolt, jump, or fire a fecal stream. Fast but not aggressive; mild venom. A less common, monotypic-genus collector's avic.
⚠️ Safety Information
Urticating Hairs
This species has urticating hairs that can cause irritation if handled. Use caution during maintenance.
Venom Potency
Venom is not considered medically significant to humans, though reactions may vary.
Species Statistics
0
Total Keepers
N/A
Community Rating
Intermediate
Care Level
🕷️
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