Fringed Ornamental Tarantula (Poecilotheria Ornata)
The Poecilotheria ornata is a large and stunning species. With the ability to reach over ten inches, some reporting 12, it is quite a sight to behold. It is suggested that this species is enjoyed for viewing and you should really know what you are doing if you attempt to pick hold one. A single bite of this little beggar will earn you a trip to the local hospital.
However this has not stopped enthusiasts having a soft spot for this giant, often referring to them as “Pookies”.
It does not have the stunning and vibrant colours of a Cobalt blue, but it is still a beauty anyways. Though the colours and patterns vary very slightly, they have a beautiful coffee brown base with yellow markings.
This giant is a must have for enthusiasts. Even though it is not on the friendly side it is beautiful to watch, and this is why it is so popular. It definitely is not a species for anyone nervous or new to the hobby. They are lightning fast and you do not want this making a bolt for freedom, or worse loose them in your house somewhere.
Being an old world spider you do not have to worry about this species kicking hairs into your face when you are trying to feed it. Its bite is more than enough to warn off any potential poking or prodding.
Thought this is a tree climbing species, it will not be totally unusual to find your tarantula chilling on top of a log or whatever ornaments or hide outs you put in for it. As they are used to the blistering sun of Sri Lanker, the will hide away during the day, and bask at night.
Scientific name:
Poecilotheria ornata
Distribution:
Sri Lanka
Natural habitat:
Taking refuge from the scotching mid day sun in any crack, or hideaway that it can find. They are also big climbers.
Food:
This species has a fantastic appetite. As they can grow up to 10 inches, there are plenty of options.
Lifespan:
Nothing unusual here. A captive female can live to around 12 years old, males to around 3 after they have reached maturity.
Mating:
The male will approach the female and drum. If the people drums back it is a good signal. However the female may drum back but not exit her hideaway. If she does this but shows no signs of aggression, remove the male and try again another time. Some hobbyists and enthusiasts have bravely allowed the male and female to cohabit for 24 hours or longer.
Housing:
Something large and tall. As your lovely little lady can reach around 10 inches plus, it would be wise to provide something big to accommodate her. Due to their fast and aggressive nature, an enclosure that opens from the top would bit wise.
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Habitat layout:
Access to fresh water of course, a good hardy helping of substrate, and something like a bit of log for your long legged beauty to hide under or to climb. They are natural climbers so this would be idea.
If you need help buying an enclosure why not check out our enclosure review. Click here for the article.
Development rate:
As these are fantastic eaters it is as expected a fast developer. Some hobbyists insist a growth of two inches within a year.
Temperature:
Considering how hot their natural habitat is, it would be sensible to assume they want to be kept in cozy conditions. Late 70’s, early 80s is your best bet. Providing a heat gradient will allow this tarantula to pick and chose which area of the enclosure it prefers.
Personality:
This little beauty doesn’t quite have the temper of an OBT, but not far off. It is not as keen to attack as an OBT, but will give a very nasty bite if provoked.
Reproduction:
Like most species of tarantula, the results can go one way or another. Hobbyists blog of their results. Some say that the male is killed virtually straight away. Others say it went text book smooth. Their male started drumming and the female responded, mating took place and she retreated back to her enclosure. It is hard to find an exact number, but it is believed that the egg sac contains around 100 on average slings.