Peruvian Giant Whip Spider

Heterophrynus elaphus

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 giant Amazonian whip spider from humid cave mouths and buttressed tree trunks — an impressive, alien-looking display arachnid, and harmless (no venom, no sting). Wants warm, very humid conditions (75-90%) with strong ventilation and tall cork bark to cling to. Nocturnal and extremely shy, freezing or retreating when disturbed. Dehydration is the main risk — mist and provide water.

Taxonomy

FamilyPhrynidae

GenusHeterophrynus

Native regionAmazon Basin (Peru)

TypeArboreal

Temperamentshy; freezes or flees

Size & growth

Adult sizebody ~1.5-2.4 in; legspan to ~10 in

Leg span40.00–60.00 mm

Growth ratemedium

Climate

Temperature72–80 °F

Humidity75–90%

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