New World vs Old World Tarantulas
Understanding the Two Major Types of Tarantulas in the Hobby
Introduction
If you’re exploring the tarantula hobby, one of the first distinctions you’ll encounter is between New World and Old World tarantulas. These terms refer to more than just geography — they also indicate differences in behavior, venom, temperament, and care requirements.
Whether you’re a beginner choosing your first tarantula or an experienced keeper looking to expand, understanding the difference between New World and Old World species is essential.
What Does “New World” and “Old World” Mean?
- New World Tarantulas: Species native to North, Central, and South America
- Old World Tarantulas: Species native to Africa, Asia, Europe, and Australia
Key Differences at a Glance
| Feature | New World Tarantulas | Old World Tarantulas |
|---|---|---|
| Native Region | Americas | Africa, Asia, Europe, Australia |
| Temperament | Generally docile | Defensive, aggressive |
| Defense Mechanism | Urticating hairs (flicking hairs) | No hairs, relies on biting |
| Venom Potency | Mild | Stronger, medically significant |
| Speed | Slower, more predictable | Very fast and reactive |
| Handling | Safer (but still not recommended) | Strongly discouraged |
| Recommended For | Beginners and all hobbyists | Intermediate to advanced keepers |
| Webbing | Moderate (varies by species) | Often heavy webbers or burrowers |
New World Tarantulas — Overview
New World species are known for being calm, slow-moving, and less medically significant. They’re ideal for beginners and anyone looking for display tarantulas with manageable care needs.
Common Traits:
- Use urticating hairs as a primary defense
- Less likely to bite
- Typically live long lives (especially females)
- Available in stunning colors (e.g., Brachypelma, Grammostola, Avicularia)
Great For:
- Beginner tarantula keepers
- Education setups
- Those who want lower-risk species
Examples:
- Grammostola pulchra — Brazilian Black
- Brachypelma hamorii — Mexican Red Knee
- Avicularia avicularia — Pink Toe
Old World Tarantulas — Overview
Old World tarantulas are fast, highly defensive, and not recommended for handling. They lack urticating hairs, so their only defense is biting — and they will use it if threatened.
Common Traits:
- No urticating hairs
- Potent venom — bites can be very painful and medically significant
- Lightning-fast movement and escape attempts
- Often stunning in color and pattern (Poecilotheria, Harpactira, Haplopelma)
Great For:
- Advanced or experienced keepers
- Display enclosures with minimal interaction
- Those confident with fast, defensive species
Examples:
- Poecilotheria metallica — Gooty Sapphire Ornamental
- Harpactira pulchripes — Golden Blue-Leg Baboon
- Haplopelma lividum — Cobalt Blue Tarantula
Which Should You Choose?
Choose New World if you want:
- A docile, low-risk tarantula
- A pet that’s easy to care for and observe
- Something suitable for beginners
Choose Old World if you:
- Have experience rehousing or maintaining defensive tarantulas
- Prefer display species you won’t handle
- Are comfortable managing potent venom and fast behavior
Final Thoughts
Understanding the New World vs Old World tarantula divide is crucial for selecting the right species for your experience level and preferences. While New World tarantulas are excellent beginner pets, Old World species offer experienced keepers a unique challenge with incredible colors, webbing behaviors, and exotic origins.
Both groups have something incredible to offer — as long as you respect their differences and meet their needs.
🕷️ Related Pages on The Tarantula Vault: