Gooty Sapphire Ornamental Tarantula

Looks how to spot one

Exoskeleton covered in fine hairs (setae); urticating hairs present.

This tarantula has a velvety, metallic blue body with intricate pale grey and white markings on the carapace and legs. The underside is a lighter blue-grey. The overall effect is a shimmering, jewel-like appearance.12

Personality what they are like

This tarantula is nervous and skittish, preferring to flee from threats. It is photosensitive and will retreat from bright light. Under provocation it may bite, and its venom is considered medically significant, capable of causing severe pain, nausea and cramping that can last for weeks. Handling is not recommended.165

Daily activity how busy a day looks

Nocturnal and secretive; requires a vertically oriented enclosure with climbing opportunities such as cork bark tubes or bamboo lengths. Subdued lighting is best.65

Grooming and care the hands-on bits

Minimal grooming; the spider cleans itself. Keepers must maintain humidity (75-85%) and temperature (18-24°C / 64-75°F) with good ventilation. Misting occasionally provides drinking water. Do not handle; use a cup-and-card method for moving the spider.16

Home where they are happiest

A tall terrarium (e.g. 30x30x45 cm) with vertical cork bark or bamboo tubes for hiding and climbing. Substrate should be kept moderately moist. Temperature 18-24°C (64-75°F) with a night drop to 18-21°C (65-70°F). Humidity 75-85%. Good ventilation is essential. This species is not venomous to humans in a life-threatening way, but its bite can cause severe symptoms; it is legal to keep in most countries but check local regulations.165

Food basics what goes in the bowl

Carnivorous; eats crickets, roaches, moths, grasshoppers, mealworms and other insects. Adults may take small lizards. Feed spiderlings 1-2 appropriately sized insects five times a week; juveniles and adults once or twice a week.175

Company who they like around

Solitary; should be housed alone. In the wild, they may live communally when tree hollows are limited, but in captivity they are territorial and cannibalistic. Do not cohabitate.16

The story where it all began

The first known specimen was sent to the British Museum in 1898 by H.R.P. Carter, who received it from engineer H.C. West. West found the spider in his bungalow near Gooty, India. The species was described by Pocock in 1899. It has been bred in captivity for over ten years and is popular among tarantula enthusiasts for its striking blue colour. It is considered critically endangered in the wild due to habitat loss.12

Recognised by the official bits

ITIS

Accepted species Poecilotheria metallica Pocock, 18998

Popularity High among tarantula keepers due to its stunning colour and relative calmness for a Poecilotheria.16