Phormictopus cancerides
✓ VerifiedHaitian Brown Tarantula, Hispaniolan Giant Tarantula
No machine-readable author provided. Trépas~commonswiki assumed (based on copyright claims)., Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
Quick Facts
Adult Size
5-6 inches
Growth Rate
fast
Temperament
Hardy and generally calm for a large species; faster than Brachypelma but less defensive
Taxonomy
Community
Experience Required
Beginner Friendly
Great for first-time keepers
🌡️ Climate Requirements
Temperature Range
75°F - 82°F
(24°C - 28°C)
Humidity Range
65% - 75%
🏠 Enclosure Sizes
Sling
2x2x2 inches
Juvenile
6x6x4 inches
Adult
12x8x6 inches
🪨 Substrate
Type
coco fiber, topsoil mix
Depth
3-4 inches
🍽️ Feeding Schedule
Sling
2x per week
Juvenile
weekly
Adult
every 7-10 days
Prey Size
medium
💧 Additional Care Notes
Water Dish
Required
Webbing
moderate
Burrowing
Yes
🕷️ Behavior & Temperament
General Temperament
Hardy and generally calm for a large species; faster than Brachypelma but less defensive
Care Guide
Phormictopus cancerides is an underrated beginner-friendly species from Hispaniola with a rich bronze-brown coloration and fast growth rate. They are recommended for keepers who want a larger tarantula without committing to the decades of slow growth associated with Grammostola or Brachypelma — P. cancerides can reach adult size in 3-4 years. They are generally calm but move faster than typical beginner species like T. albopilosus. Urticating hairs are present but typically not kicked as aggressively as Nhandu or Acanthoscurria. Keep the substrate moderately moist with a water dish always available. Provide a hide and ample floor space. They are opportunistic feeders with a strong feeding response. The genus Phormictopus contains numerous species; the auratus (Cuban Gold) and sp. 'Green' are other popular hobby species.
⚠️ 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
3
Total Keepers
N/A
Community Rating
Beginner Friendly
Care Level
🕷️
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