Red Slate Ornamental Tarantula

Looks how to spot one

Spider body with setae (hairs)

This large arboreal tarantula has long, slender legs with a greyish-red overall tone. The carapace, abdomen and upper leg segments are velvety black, while the undersides of the first two leg pairs show bright yellow patches. The feet have iridescent blue-green highlights, and the setae on the legs are greyish or red.125

Personality what they are like

This spider is fast, skittish and defensive. It is not a handling pet and will readily bite if provoked. Its venom is potent and medically significant, causing severe pain and possible systemic symptoms. It is best for experienced keepers only.135

Daily activity how busy a day looks

Arboreal and active, especially at night. Needs a tall enclosure with branches, cork bark and a water dish. It will use vertical space and may web extensively. Handling is not recommended; maintenance should be planned carefully to avoid escapes.34

Grooming and care the hands-on bits

No special grooming needed. Keep the enclosure clean, provide fresh water, and maintain proper humidity and temperature. Avoid touching the spider; use long tongs and a catch cup for maintenance.34

Home where they are happiest

Needs a tall, well-ventilated enclosure with a secure lid. Provide a large cork tube or bark slab as a retreat, a water dish, and branches for climbing. Temperature around 22-27°C by day, with nights 20-23°C. Humidity around 65-80% with good airflow. Substrate should be firm and moisture-holding. This species is endangered and protected by Indian law; it is illegal to keep without proper permits in many places.342

Food basics what goes in the bowl

Insectivorous. Feed on live insects such as crickets, roaches, locusts, mealworms and other appropriately sized invertebrates. Adults typically eat every 7-14 days; spiderlings more frequently.34

Company who they like around

Solitary. Keep alone; communal keeping is not recommended as cannibalism can occur. This species is not a pet for beginners due to its speed, defensiveness and potent venom.35

The story where it all began

This species was first described by Pocock in 1899. It is endemic to the Western Ghats of India, where it lives in tree holes and under bark. It has been popular among advanced tarantula keepers for its size and colour, but it is now endangered due to habitat loss and smuggling for the pet trade. It is listed in Schedule II of the Indian Wildlife Protection Act 2022, which gives it legal protection.12

Recognised by the official bits

IUCN Red List

Classed as 'endangered' due to habitat loss and collection for the pet trade.1