West African Tree Baboon Tarantula

West African Tree Baboon Tarantula Care

Species: Stromatopelma fumigatum
Common Name: West African Tree Baboon

The West African Tree Baboon (Stromatopelma fumigatum) is a rare and remarkable Old World arboreal tarantula from the dense forests of West Africa, particularly in Sierra Leone, Ghana, and Cameroon. It shares many similarities with its close relative, S. calceatum, but tends to display darker, smokier coloration, with subtle iridescent tones that inspired its name — fumigatum, meaning “smoky.”

This species is known for its thick webbing, lightning-fast reflexes, and uncompromising defensiveness. Its speed and potent venom make it unsuitable for beginners, but for experienced keepers, it offers a fascinating glimpse into the natural behavior of one of Africa’s most cryptic predators.

Quick Facts

  • Scientific Name: Stromatopelma fumigatum
  • Common Name: West African Tree Baboon
  • Origin: West Africa (Sierra Leone, Ghana, Cameroon)
  • Adult Size: 12–14 cm (5–5.5 inches) leg span
  • Lifespan: Females 12–15 years; Males 3–4 years
  • Temperament: Highly defensive, extremely fast
  • Experience Level: Expert

Housing & Enclosure

Stromatopelma fumigatum is a true arboreal tarantula that constructs silken tunnels among bark crevices or tree hollows. A vertical enclosure setup is essential.

Recommended enclosure sizes:

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

Setup guidelines:

  • Use a vertical cork bark slab or hollow tube for climbing
  • Include branches, vines, and foliage for support
  • Provide ample ventilation and a secure locking lid
  • Keep lighting low and avoid direct disturbance

Once established, S. fumigatum will create a dense silken retreat near the top or along the cork bark, which it uses as both a hide and hunting platform.

Substrate & Decoration

Recommended substrate:

  • Coco coir, topsoil, or peat moss (5–8 cm deep)

Add:

  • Cork bark or driftwood for height and structure
  • Artificial plants or moss to retain humidity
  • Leaf litter for natural aesthetics

The spider will make heavy use of its environment, webbing between anchor points to form a fortress-like retreat.

Temperature & Humidity

  • Temperature: 24–28°C (75–82°F)
  • Humidity: 70–80%

Mist lightly every few days to maintain humidity, allowing one side of the enclosure to remain dry. Provide a small water dish at the base. Even if the spider webs over it, refill regularly.

Ventilation is vital — this species thrives in warm, humid air that circulates freely.

Feeding & Water

Stromatopelma fumigatum is a voracious predator that will quickly respond to prey vibrations.

Feeding schedule:

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

Feed crickets, roaches, or locusts appropriately sized to the tarantula. Drop food near the web entrance and observe the rapid ambush behavior typical of this genus.

Always provide access to fresh water.

Handling & Temperament

Handling is strongly discouraged for this species.

S. fumigatum is among the most defensive and reactive tarantulas in captivity, capable of covering distance in an instant and delivering a potent bite.

Behavioral traits include:

  • Immediate defensive posture when disturbed
  • Extreme speed and unpredictability
  • Heavy use of webbing as an early warning system

All interaction should be done with tools such as long tongs, catch cups, and patience. Open the enclosure only when necessary.

Molting

Molting occurs inside the spider’s silken retreat.

Pre-molt signs:

  • Refusal of food
  • Sealing off the web tunnel
  • Duller coloration

Avoid any disturbance during this time. After molting, wait 10–14 days before offering prey again.

Common Health Issues

  • Inadequate ventilation: Leads to mold growth and poor air quality
  • Overly dry conditions: Can cause dehydration and molting issues
  • Excessive disturbance: Results in stress and defensive behavior

Maintain stable humidity, airflow, and minimal handling for a healthy specimen.

Breeding (Overview)

Breeding is rarely attempted due to the species’ aggression but is possible.

  • Ensure both spiders are well-fed and mature
  • Introduce the male with extreme caution
  • Observe constantly, as females may attack quickly

Successful pairings result in an egg sac of 100–150 spiderlings, which are hardy but fast and defensive from an early stage.

Quick Care Checklist

  • Type: Arboreal
  • Enclosure: Tall (30 × 30 × 45 cm)
  • Substrate: Coco coir/topsoil (5–8 cm)
  • Temperature: 24–28°C
  • Humidity: 70–80%
  • Feeding: Crickets or roaches every 7–12 days
  • Handling: Not advised — highly defensive and fast

Final Thoughts

The West African Tree Baboon (Stromatopelma fumigatum) is a lesser-known but equally formidable cousin to S. calceatum, embodying everything that defines the Stromatopelma genus — ferocity, beauty, and astonishing agility.

Its smoky coloration, complex web architecture, and lightning-fast predation make it a species best admired from a respectful distance. For advanced keepers who appreciate the raw, untamed side of tarantula keeping, S. fumigatum represents one of Africa’s most striking and underrated arboreals.

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