Poecilotheria formosa
Salem Ornamental, Beautiful Parachute Spider
Quick Facts
Adult Size
5-6 inches
Growth Rate
fast
Temperament
high-strung and very fast; bites if provoked
Taxonomy
Community
Experience Required
Advanced
Experienced keepers only
🌡️ Climate Requirements
Temperature Range
78–82°F
(26–28°C)
Humidity Range
65% - 75%
🏠 Enclosure Sizes
Adult
12x12x18 inches (vertical)
🪨 Substrate
Type
vertical cork with 2-3 in substrate; kept dry, misted weekly; 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
high-strung and very fast; bites if provoked
Care Guide
The Salem Ornamental, an Indian arboreal pokie that grows fast and matures early (6-9 year lifespan). High-strung and one of the faster Poecilotheria — not outright aggressive, but it will bite if it feels trapped, and its Old World venom is medically significant. No urticating hairs; advanced, no-handling only. Tall enclosure with a vertical cork retreat, dry substrate with a weekly misting, and a water dish. Use long tongs and give it a secure retreat to bolt into.
⚠️ 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
🕷️
Keeping Salem Ornamental?
Tarantuverse is the free app for tracking your collection — log feedings, molts, and growth, get premolt predictions, and keep every care detail in one place. Works on web, iOS, and Android.
Free for up to 15 animals · No credit card required