Poecilotheria metallica

Name: Poecilotheria metallica
SKU: 17829
Price: 99.00 PLN
Availability: InStock

In stock

SKU: N/A Categories: Spiders, Tarantulas

Poecilotheria metallica, also known as the Gooty Sapphire Ornamental, is one of the most recognisable and striking tree-dwelling tarantulas in the world. It captivates with its metallic blue colouring, contrasting patterns on its legs and a very active lifestyle. It is a fast, agile species that requires caution, which is why we recommend it to keepers who already have experience with tarantulas. List of key features

Type: tree-dwelling tarantula
Difficulty level: advanced
Size: up to approximately 15–20 cm between the legs
Colour: a metallic blue with light and yellowish patterns
Natural habitat: India, Andhra Pradesh
Temperament: quick, skittish, defensive when stressed
Keeping conditions: vertical terrarium, good ventilation, temperature around 24–28°C
Humidity: around 70–80 per cent, without the substrate being constantly wet
Diet: feed insects selected to suit the spider’s size

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Description

Description

Characteristics and natural habitat of Poecilotheria metallica

Poecilotheria metallica is a real gem amongst tarantulas. Its vivid blue colouring makes it one of the most sought-after species in the hobby. Adults display beautiful, geometric patterns on their legs and abdomen, and in the right light, their colour can appear almost metallic.

In the wild, this species is found in India, mainly in the state of Andhra Pradesh. It is a tree-dwelling tarantula, so it spends most of its time high up in bark crevices, tree hollows and vertical hiding places. In a terrarium, it will also readily make use of cork, branches and other items that allow it to build shelters above the ground.

Keeping conditions for Poecilotheria metallica

Poecilotheria metallica requires a vertical terrarium with good ventilation and stable conditions. The ideal setup would be a tank with a cork tube, vertically positioned bark, and a place where the spider can build its own hiding place.

The substrate should be kept slightly moist, but must not be constantly wet. This species requires high humidity, but air circulation is equally important. A terrarium that is too stuffy and damp can lead to mould and health problems for the spider.

The ideal temperature for Poecilotheria metallica is around 24–28°C. It is also a good idea to provide a small bowl of water, particularly for larger specimens.

Diet and feeding of Poecilotheria metallica

Poecilotheria metallica is a fast and efficient hunter. We feed it insects of a suitable size, such as crickets, cockroaches, locusts or mealworm larvae. Young specimens should be given smaller prey, appropriate to their size.

Do not leave an uneaten insect in the terrarium for too long, especially if the spider is preparing to moult. In the run-up to moulting, a tarantula may refuse food and spend more time in its hiding place.

The challenges of keeping Poecilotheria metallica

This is a species for experienced keepers. Poecilotheria metallica is not an aggressive tarantula without reason, but it is very fast, skittish and may react defensively if it feels threatened. It does not have stinging hairs, so it relies mainly on flight or a bite for defence.

We do not recommend handling this species. When working in the terrarium, it is best to use tweezers and a safety container, and to remain calm. This tarantula is best observed rather than handled directly.

The first few days after buying a Poecilotheria metallica

Once you have received the spider, have a terrarium or a suitable temporary container ready. Place it in a quiet spot, away from draughts, bright light and frequent vibrations. Once you have placed it in its new home, give it time to settle in.

During the first few days, it is best to keep disturbance to a minimum. The spider may hide in a shelter, start spinning a web or stop eating for a while. This is normal behaviour following transport and a change of environment.