Dark Earth Tiger Tarantula Care
Species: Haploclastus tenebrosus
Common Name: Dark Earth Tiger
The Dark Earth Tiger (Haploclastus tenebrosus) is a sleek, secretive Old World fossorial tarantula native to the moist forested regions of southern India. Though less vividly colored than some of its relatives, this species possesses an understated beauty — subtle shades of bronze, charcoal, and violet-blue that catch the light with a metallic shimmer.
Highly defensive, lightning-fast, and endlessly industrious, H. tenebrosus is a spider for those who enjoy observing the natural behavior of a true earth tiger — burrowing, webbing, and ambushing prey with precision.
Quick Facts
- Scientific Name: Haploclastus tenebrosus
- Common Name: Dark Earth Tiger
- Origin: Southern India
- Adult Size: 11–13 cm (4.5–5 inches) leg span
- Lifespan: Females 12–15 years; Males 3–4 years
- Temperament: Fast, defensive, secretive
- Experience Level: Advanced
Housing & Enclosure
As a fossorial species, H. tenebrosus thrives in a deep, stable environment with ample room for tunneling and webbing. It rarely ventures far from its burrow except to feed or maintain its silk structures.
Recommended enclosure sizes:
- Juveniles: 20 × 20 × 20 cm
- Adults: 30 × 30 × 30 cm (12 × 12 × 12 inches)
Setup guidelines:
- Provide 15–20 cm (6–8 inches) of firmly packed substrate
- Include a cork bark slab or curved hide angled into the substrate
- Maintain cross ventilation and a secure lid
- Keep the enclosure in a low-light, quiet location
Once settled, expect it to create a network of silk tunnels radiating from the burrow entrance, often sealing itself in completely when it feels threatened.
Substrate & Decoration
Recommended substrate:
- Coco coir, peat moss, or topsoil, compacted to hold burrows
Add:
- Cork bark hide or starter tunnel
- Leaf litter and moss for humidity regulation
- Optional natural decor to provide anchor points for webbing
This species prefers simplicity and stability over clutter — its webbing and burrow will become the main visual centerpiece.
Temperature & Humidity
- Temperature: 24–28°C (75–82°F)
- Humidity: 70–80%
Lightly mist one section of the enclosure every few days to maintain moisture levels. Avoid oversaturating the substrate.
Provide a shallow water dish, even if it becomes covered in webbing. Ventilation is essential to prevent fungal growth.
Feeding & Water
H. tenebrosus is a voracious feeder, striking with characteristic Old World speed and precision.
Feeding schedule:
- Slings: Every 4–5 days
- Juveniles: Every 7 days
- Adults: Every 10–12 days
Feed appropriately sized crickets, roaches, or locusts, and remove uneaten prey after 24 hours.
Always ensure fresh water is available and humidity remains consistent.
Handling & Temperament
Handling is strongly discouraged. Like other Haploclastus species, H. tenebrosus has potent venom and a highly defensive temperament.
Behavioral notes:
- Extremely fast and reactive
- Defensive when cornered
- Prefers retreat over confrontation
Use long tools and catch cups for enclosure maintenance, move slowly, and avoid vibrations or bright light.
Molting
Molting occurs deep within the burrow, often unseen.
Pre-molt signs:
- Food refusal
- Burrow sealed with silk
- Duller coloration
Leave the tarantula undisturbed until it reappears. Wait at least 7–10 days post-molt before offering food.
Common Health Issues
- Low humidity: Causes dehydration and molting issues
- Poor ventilation: Promotes mold and mites
- Overfeeding or disturbance: Leads to stress and defensive behavior
Stable, undisturbed conditions are key to long-term success.
Breeding (Overview)
Breeding is possible but requires patience and experience.
- Pair only mature, well-fed individuals
- Introduce the male cautiously under supervision
- Successful pairing may result in a sac within 8–10 weeks containing 100–150 spiderlings
Spiderlings grow quickly and display burrowing behavior early.
Quick Care Checklist
- Type: Fossorial
- Enclosure: Deep (30 × 30 × 30 cm)
- Substrate: Compact coco coir (15–20 cm)
- Temperature: 24–28°C
- Humidity: 70–80%
- Feeding: Crickets or roaches every 7–12 days
- Handling: Not recommended — fast and defensive
Final Thoughts
The Dark Earth Tiger (Haploclastus tenebrosus) might not flaunt the neon hues of its relatives, but it embodies the quiet, regal beauty of India’s forest floor. With its dark iridescence, hidden tunnels, and rapid feeding behavior, it’s a captivating example of Haploclastus elegance in its purest form.
For seasoned enthusiasts who value behavior over color and the intricate life of fossorial tarantulas, H. tenebrosus delivers mystery, power, and subtle brilliance — a true jewel in the shadows of The Tarantula Vault’s Old World collection.
© The Tarantula Vault
All information provided is for educational purposes only and not a substitute for professional veterinary care.
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