Venezuelan Sun Tiger Tarantula Care
Species: Psalmopoeus irminia
Common Name: Venezuelan Sun Tiger Tarantula
The Venezuelan Sun Tiger Tarantula (Psalmopoeus irminia) is a visually striking and lightning-fast arboreal species from the forests of Venezuela. Known for its jet-black body, vivid orange markings, and bold webbing behavior, this tarantula combines beauty with intensity.
While not typically aggressive, it is defensive and extremely quick, making it a species better suited for intermediate to advanced keepers. Its adaptability and unique appearance make it one of the most admired members of the Psalmopoeus genus.
Quick Facts
- Scientific Name: Psalmopoeus irminia
- Common Name: Venezuelan Sun Tiger Tarantula
- Origin: Venezuela, northern South America
- Adult Size: 12–15 cm (5–6 inches) leg span
- Lifespan: Females 10–12 years; Males 3–4 years
- Temperament: Defensive, fast, reclusive
- Experience Level: Intermediate to advanced
Housing & Enclosure
P. irminia is a semi-arboreal species that appreciates both vertical climbing space and some ground area for retreat construction. It often creates silken tunnels and retreats that combine webbing, bark, and substrate.
Recommended enclosure sizes:
- Juveniles: 20×20×25 cm
- Adults: 30×30×45 cm or similar
Provide vertical cork bark slabs or tubes for climbing, along with moss or foliage for cover. A secure, well-ventilated enclosure is essential — these spiders are strong and fast.
They will web heavily, so don’t be surprised if much of the enclosure becomes lined with silk.
Substrate & Decoration
Use a slightly moist substrate of coco coir, peat moss, or topsoil, around 8–10 cm deep to allow limited digging. Include vertical and diagonal cork bark, branches, and artificial plants for security and web attachment.
A hide at the base of the enclosure (such as a cork round or bark half) encourages natural retreat-building behavior.
Because this species is secretive, focus on giving it multiple options for hiding and webbing rather than open display.
Temperature & Humidity
- Temperature: 25–28°C (77–82°F)
- Humidity: 70–80%
Maintain a light misting schedule — every few days — but never allow the enclosure to become waterlogged. Good ventilation is just as important as humidity to prevent mold or respiratory issues.
Always provide a shallow water dish, even though this species often gets its moisture from droplets on webbing.
Feeding & Water
P. irminia is an active, enthusiastic hunter. It will often leap onto prey from its web or retreat. Offer a diet of appropriately sized live insects such as crickets, roaches, or mealworms.
Feeding schedule:
- Slings: Every 4–5 days
- Juveniles: Every 7 days
- Adults: Every 10–12 days
Remove uneaten prey within 24 hours. This species has a healthy appetite but may fast briefly before molting.
Handling & Temperament
The Venezuelan Sun Tiger is not a handling species. It is extremely fast and can be defensive when cornered. While it rarely bites without reason, its speed makes accidental escapes easy.
Always use long tools or catch cups for maintenance or rehouses. Move slowly and deliberately to avoid startling the spider.
Despite its reclusive behavior, it is fascinating to observe through its web structures and quick predatory responses.
Molting
Molting is fairly routine for Psalmopoeus species, though they may hide for several days beforehand. You’ll often find the shed exoskeleton inside their web retreat.
Signs of molting include:
- Refusal to eat
- Sealing itself in its web tunnel
- Duller coloration
Do not disturb the tarantula until it re-emerges. Wait at least a week after a molt before offering food.
Common Health Issues
- Dehydration: Maintain consistent humidity and provide a water dish.
- Poor Ventilation: Can lead to mold or respiratory issues — ensure good airflow.
- Stress: Caused by excessive disturbance or lack of hiding spots.
- Injury: Avoid hard falls — this species moves quickly and can damage itself if startled.
Breeding (Overview)
Breeding Psalmopoeus irminia is relatively straightforward for experienced keepers.
- Females are usually receptive but introduce males cautiously.
- Mating occurs inside the female’s web tunnel and may last several minutes.
- The female may produce an egg sac within 8–10 weeks containing 100–150 spiderlings.
Spiderlings are fast-growing and can be raised communally for a short time if well-fed.
Quick Care Checklist
- Type: Semi-arboreal
- Enclosure: 30×30×45 cm with vertical and horizontal structures
- Substrate: Slightly moist coco coir or topsoil (8–10 cm deep)
- Temperature: 25–28°C
- Humidity: 70–80%
- Feeding: Crickets or roaches every 7–12 days
- Handling: Avoid — fast, defensive, and unpredictable
Final Thoughts
The Venezuelan Sun Tiger Tarantula is a stunning blend of power and beauty — sleek black contrasted with glowing orange highlights. Its impressive speed and striking defensive postures make it an unforgettable species to observe.
Though not for beginners, experienced keepers who respect its space will be rewarded with one of the most visually captivating tarantulas in the hobby.
When housed properly with adequate humidity, airflow, and structure, Psalmopoeus irminia is both hardy and truly spectacular.
© The Tarantula Vault
All information provided is for educational purposes only and not a substitute for professional veterinary care.
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