Nilgiri Earth Tiger Tarantula Care
Species: Haploclastus nilgirinus
Common Name: Nilgiri Earth Tiger
The Nilgiri Earth Tiger (Haploclastus nilgirinus) is a striking fossorial tarantula native to the Nilgiri Hills of southern India. A close relative of H. devamatha, this species is adored for its deep metallic blue-purple sheen and the subtle bronze tones that glimmer across the carapace. It’s an Old World tarantula through and through—fast, secretive, and heavily web-oriented—making it best suited to experienced keepers who appreciate burrowing behavior and brilliant coloration.
Quick Facts
- Scientific Name: Haploclastus nilgirinus
- Common Name: Nilgiri Earth Tiger
- Origin: Nilgiri Hills, India
- Adult Size: 11–13 cm (4.5–5 in) leg span
- Lifespan: Females 12–15 years; Males 3–4 years
- Temperament: Fast, defensive, reclusive
- Experience Level: Advanced
Housing & Enclosure
Like its relatives, H. nilgirinus is a fossorial species that demands depth and security. It prefers to dig elaborate tunnels and will line them with dense silk.
Recommended enclosure sizes
- Juveniles: 20 × 20 × 20 cm
- Adults: 30 × 30 × 30 cm (12 × 12 × 12 in)
Setup guidelines
- Provide 15–20 cm (6–8 in) of firmly packed substrate
- Place a cork bark slab or tube at an angle to encourage burrowing
- Maintain moderate cross-ventilation with a secure lid
- Keep lighting indirect; they dislike bright conditions
Once comfortable, the spider will create a silken fortress around its burrow entrance, often webbing the entire visible surface.
Substrate & Decoration
Recommended substrate: compact coco coir, peat moss, or topsoil free from additives
Add:
- Cork bark for structure
- Moss and leaf litter to retain humidity
- Small plants or decor if desired—though the spider will remodel them quickly
Temperature & Humidity
- Temperature: 24–28 °C (75–82 °F)
- Humidity: 70–80 %
Lightly mist one side of the enclosure every few days. Keep the substrate evenly moist but not waterlogged. Provide a small, shallow water dish at all times and ensure steady airflow to avoid mold.
Feeding & Water
H. nilgirinus is an enthusiastic feeder that reacts instantly to vibrations near its burrow entrance.
Feeding schedule:
- Slings: every 4–5 days
- Juveniles: every 7 days
- Adults: every 10–12 days
Feed crickets, roaches, or locusts of appropriate size and remove uneaten prey within 24 hours. Always provide access to fresh water.
Handling & Temperament
Handling is not recommended. This is a true Old World tarantula—quick, defensive, and equipped with potent venom.
Expect:
- Lightning-fast retreats when disturbed
- Threat postures if cornered
- Webbing used as an early-warning network
Use long tools and catch cups for maintenance, move slowly, and avoid vibrations.
Molting
Molting generally occurs inside the burrow and is seldom seen.
Pre-molt signs: food refusal, sealing of burrow entrances, dull coloration.
Do not disturb the spider until it re-emerges. Wait 7–10 days after molting before feeding.
Common Health Issues
- Low humidity: risk of dehydration or bad molts
- Poor ventilation: mold and bacterial growth
- Excessive disturbance: prolonged stress and defensive behavior
Keep the environment stable and quiet for long-term health.
Breeding (Overview)
Breeding H. nilgirinus is challenging but rewarding for specialists.
- Pair mature, well-fed adults during cooler evening hours
- Supervise closely; females can be aggressive
- A successful pairing may yield an egg sac in 8–10 weeks containing 100–150 spiderlings
Young grow steadily under warm, humid conditions.
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 advised—fast and defensive
Final Thoughts
The Nilgiri Earth Tiger (Haploclastus nilgirinus) captures the essence of India’s hidden beauty—rich metallic hues, secretive burrows, and fierce personality. It’s a species for those who appreciate subtle elegance and authentic Old World behavior.
While it rarely sits in the open, the flashes of iridescent blue-violet when it surfaces make every glimpse memorable. For advanced keepers seeking a refined, enigmatic addition to their collection, H. nilgirinus is a perfect ambassador of the Haploclastus genus.
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All information provided is for educational purposes only and not a substitute for professional veterinary care.
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