Sri Lankan Ornamental Tarantula Care

Species: Poecilotheria ornata
Common Name: Sri Lankan Ornamental Tarantula

The Sri Lankan Ornamental Tarantula (Poecilotheria ornata) is one of the largest and most visually striking arboreal tarantulas in existence. Native to the lush forests of Sri Lanka, this Old World beauty displays bold yellow leg bands, intricate leaf-like markings, and an iridescent sheen that makes it unmistakable.

While undeniably beautiful, P. ornata is also fast, defensive, and equipped with potent venom, making it a species reserved for experienced keepers. When housed and respected properly, it thrives as a spectacular display animal with remarkable hunting and webbing behaviors.

Quick Facts

  • Scientific Name: Poecilotheria ornata
  • Common Name: Sri Lankan Ornamental Tarantula
  • Origin: Sri Lanka (rainforests and humid woodland)
  • Adult Size: 18–22 cm (7–9 inches) leg span
  • Lifespan: Females 12–15 years; Males 3–4 years
  • Temperament: Defensive, fast, unpredictable
  • Experience Level: Advanced

Housing & Enclosure

As a strictly arboreal species, P. ornata requires a tall, secure, and well-ventilated enclosure. In the wild, it inhabits tree hollows, bark crevices, and high canopy retreats, emerging at night to ambush prey.

Recommended enclosure sizes:

  • Juveniles: 20×20×25 cm
  • Adults: 30×30×45–50 cm (12×12×18–20 inches)

Provide a vertical setup with:

  • Cork bark tubes or slabs for retreats
  • Dense foliage or fake plants for cover and security
  • Strong cross ventilation to balance humidity and airflow

Because of their speed and defensive potential, the enclosure must be securely latched. These spiders can move astonishingly fast when startled.

Substrate & Decoration

Though arboreal, P. ornata benefits from some substrate depth for moisture retention and environmental stability.

Recommended substrate:

  • 5–8 cm of coco coir, peat moss, or a soil mix

Include:

  • Vertical cork bark as a primary anchor
  • Branches, driftwood, or vines for climbing
  • Leaf litter and moss to simulate a forest floor environment

This helps maintain humidity and allows the tarantula to construct a layered, natural web retreat.

Temperature & Humidity

  • Temperature: 25–28°C (77–82°F)
  • Humidity: 70–80%

Light misting every few days maintains humidity, but ensure surfaces dry between sprays to prevent mold. Cross ventilation is essential to balance moisture and airflow.

Provide a small water dish and maintain cleanliness to prevent bacterial buildup.

Feeding & Water

P. ornata is a voracious predator, taking down large prey items relative to its size.

Feeding schedule:

  • Slings: Every 4–5 days
  • Juveniles: Every 7 days
  • Adults: Every 10–12 days

Feed crickets, roaches, or locusts. For adults, larger prey such as adult dubia roaches are suitable. Remove uneaten food after 24 hours to prevent enclosure stress.

Keep a fresh water dish available at all times and lightly mist occasionally to create drinking droplets.

Handling & Temperament

Handling is strongly discouraged. Poecilotheria ornata is extremely fast, highly defensive, and possesses potent venom that can cause severe localized pain, muscle cramps, and systemic effects.

For enclosure maintenance:

  • Use long tongs and catch cups
  • Plan movements carefully
  • Avoid disturbing the spider’s retreat during daylight hours

While defensive, P. ornata prefers to flee if given space — aggression usually arises only when escape routes are blocked.

Molting

Molting typically occurs within the spider’s vertical retreat, often out of sight.

Signs of pre-molt:

  • Dull coloration
  • Reduced feeding
  • Increased hiding

Avoid disturbing the tarantula during this time. Wait 7–10 days post-molt before feeding to allow for exoskeleton hardening.

Common Health Issues

  • Poor ventilation: Can lead to fungal growth — ensure steady airflow.
  • Dehydration: Provide clean water and monitor humidity.
  • Stress: Caused by frequent enclosure interference or bright lighting.
  • Injury: Avoid falls by ensuring adequate vertical climbing structures and soft substrate.

When provided stable conditions, P. ornata is robust and long-lived.

Breeding (Overview)

Breeding Poecilotheria ornata is challenging but achievable for experienced keepers.

  • Introduce the male at night in a large, vertically oriented enclosure.
  • The female is often receptive but may show defensive behavior.
  • Successful pairings may produce an egg sac in 8–10 weeks, containing 100–150 spiderlings.

Spiderlings grow quickly and display intricate patterning even as juveniles.

Quick Care Checklist

  • Type: Arboreal
  • Enclosure: Vertical (30×30×45 cm or larger)
  • Substrate: Lightly moist coco coir (5–8 cm)
  • Temperature: 25–28°C
  • Humidity: 70–80%
  • Feeding: Crickets or roaches every 7–12 days
  • Handling: Not recommended — defensive and fast

Final Thoughts

The Sri Lankan Ornamental Tarantula (Poecilotheria ornata) is a breathtaking yet formidable Old World species. Its lightning reflexes, complex behaviors, and stunning yellow accents make it one of the most sought-after members of the Poecilotheria genus.

While not a beginner species, experienced keepers who respect its speed and temperament are rewarded with one of the most striking tarantulas on Earth. P. ornata truly embodies the beauty and mystery of the Old World — a living masterpiece best admired from behind the glass.

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All information provided is for educational purposes only and not a substitute for professional veterinary care.
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