Mexican Giant Whip Spider

Acanthophrynus coronatus

Whip spiderintermediateHarmless

No venom, no sting

Whip spiders (amblypygids) are completely harmless to humans. They're fast and can deliver a harmless pinch with their pedipalps, but have no venom and no sting.

About

A large Mexican whip spider — totally harmless but startlingly fast. Keep it around 70-78°F with moderate-to-high humidity, a tall enclosure with vertical cork to climb and molt on, and a couple inches of substrate. Nocturnal; operates largely by touch via its long feeler legs. Long-lived (~7 years). House individually; mist and provide water to prevent dehydration.

Taxonomy

FamilyPhrynidae

GenusAcanthophrynus

Native regionMexico (incl. Baja)

TypeArboreal

Temperamentshy; lightning-fast when disturbed

Size & growth

Adult sizelegspan to ~7 in (18 cm)

Leg span30.00–40.00 mm

Growth ratemedium

Climate

Temperature70–78 °F

Humidity70–85%

Enclosure

Adult sizevertical enclosure with cork bark/flat hides

Substratemoist coco fiber; vertical cork bark for clinging; water dish; strong ventilation

Substrate depth2-3 inches

Water dishRequired

Feeding

Feeding modePredator (live prey)

Prey sizecrickets, roaches

Adult cadence1-2 prey per week

Times kept: 0