Arboreal Tarantula Care Guide

Expert Tips for Keeping Arboreal Tarantulas Healthy and Thriving

Introduction

Arboreal tarantulas, or tree-dwelling tarantulas, are some of the most captivating species in the hobby. Known for their stunning colors and unique behaviors, arboreals require specialized care that mimics their natural forest canopy environments.

This Arboreal Tarantula Care Guide will walk you through everything from enclosure setup and substrate to feeding and humidity requirements, ensuring your tree-dwelling tarantula thrives in captivity.

What Are Arboreal Tarantulas?

Arboreal tarantulas spend most of their lives in trees, shrubs, or other elevated areas. They build silk retreats on bark, leaves, or branches and are generally more agile and faster than terrestrial species.

Popular arboreal species include:

Enclosure Setup for Arboreal Tarantulas

Tank Size and Shape

  • Use a vertically oriented enclosure taller than it is wide to allow climbing.
  • Recommended size ranges from 10 to 20 gallons or taller depending on the species.

Substrate

  • Use a thin substrate layer (1–2 inches) such as coconut fiber or peat moss to maintain humidity and catch debris.
  • Avoid deep substrate as arboreal tarantulas rarely burrow.

Climbing Structures and Hides

  • Provide plenty of vertical climbing surfaces like cork bark tubes, branches, and fake or live plants.
  • Add silk-friendly materials to encourage retreat-building.
  • Ensure secure hides positioned above the substrate level for safety.

Temperature and Humidity

  • Maintain temperatures between 75°F and 85°F (24°C to 29°C).
  • Arboreal tarantulas require higher humidity levels, typically between 70% and 85%.
  • Use a hygrometer and mist the enclosure regularly to maintain humidity.

Water

  • Always provide a shallow water dish with fresh water.
  • Mist the enclosure lightly to help maintain humidity but avoid waterlogging.

Feeding Your Arboreal Tarantula

  • Feed live prey like small crickets, roaches, and occasionally moths or flies.
  • Juveniles should be fed every 3–5 days; adults once every 7–10 days.
  • Remove uneaten prey promptly to prevent stress and injury.

Handling and Behavior

  • Arboreal tarantulas are often more defensive and faster than terrestrial species; handle with extreme care or avoid handling altogether.
  • They may retreat quickly or flick urticating hairs when disturbed.
  • Observe natural behaviors such as web tunnel building, climbing, and hunting.

Common Health Concerns

  • Dehydration: High humidity is crucial; monitor closely to prevent dehydration.
  • Molting Issues: Ensure optimal humidity and minimal disturbance during molting.
  • Escape Risks: Secure enclosure lids tightly, as arboreal species are skilled climbers and escape artists.

Cleaning and Maintenance

  • Spot clean regularly to remove debris and waste.
  • Change substrate every 6–12 months or as necessary.
  • Clean water dishes frequently to prevent bacterial growth.

Conclusion

Arboreal tarantulas offer an exciting challenge and stunning display for dedicated hobbyists. By providing a vertically oriented enclosure, appropriate humidity, and plenty of climbing structures, you can replicate their natural habitat and enjoy their fascinating behaviors for years.

For more species-specific care, check out our Species Care Profiles.

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