Amazonian Giant Whip Spider

Heterophrynus longicornis

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

One of the larger whip spiders in the hobby — a dramatic, long-legged Amazonian species found on big buttressed tree trunks and rocky outcrops. Harmless (no venom, no sting), shy, and nocturnal. Wants a tall enclosure with broad cork bark, warm tropical conditions (72-80°F), and high humidity (70-90%) with airflow to prevent mold. Larger and more territorial than the small communal species, so house individually unless very spacious. Mist regularly and provide a water dish — dehydration is the main risk.

Taxonomy

FamilyPhrynidae

GenusHeterophrynus

Native regionAmazon Basin (South America)

TypeArboreal

Temperamentshy; larger, more territorial

Size & growth

Adult sizebody ~1.5-2 in; legspan to ~7 in

Leg span35.00–50.00 mm

Growth ratemedium

Climate

Temperature72–80 °F

Humidity70–90%

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