Poecilotheria ornata Care Guide

The Fringed Ornamental Tarantula

Revision Date: March 2025

Introduction

Poecilotheria ornata, commonly known as the Fringed Ornamental Tarantula, is an Old World arboreal species native to Sri Lanka. This strikingly patterned tarantula is known for its impressive size, reaching up to 10 inches in diagonal leg span, making it one of the largest species within the Poecilotheria genus. While undeniably beautiful, P. ornata is not recommended for beginners due to its defensive temperament, potent venom, and incredible speed. However, for experienced keepers looking for an elegant yet formidable display tarantula, this species makes for a fascinating addition.

Quick Species Snapshot

• Scientific Name: Poecilotheria ornata

• Common Name: Fringed Ornamental Tarantula

• Type: Arboreal

• Category: Old World

• Native Range: Sri Lanka

• Size: Up to 10” (25 cm) DLS

• Growth Rate: Fast

• Life Expectancy:

  • Females: Up to 15 years

  • Males: 3–4 years

• Experience Level: Advanced

• Urticating Hairs: No

• Venom Potency: Strong (medically significant)

Taxonomy & Research Update

Poecilotheria ornata, commonly known as the Fringed Ornamental Tarantula, is a large, fast-moving arboreal species native to Sri Lanka. First described by Pocock in 1899, P. ornata is one of the largest members of the Poecilotheria genus, with some specimens reaching impressive leg spans of 9 inches (23 cm) or more.

This species shares many characteristics with other Sri Lankan Poecilotheria, including its intricate cryptic patterning, fast movements, and potent venom. However, P. ornata is distinguishable by its sheer size, elongated leg proportions, and the fringed appearance of its leg setae, giving it a unique look. Despite its impressive presence, P. ornata is not as commonly available in the hobby as P. regalis or P. vittata, making it a prized addition for collectors of ornamental tarantulas.

What Makes Poecilotheria ornata So Special?

Size alone sets P. ornata apart from many other arboreal tarantulas. With a leg span that can exceed 9 inches (23 cm), this species is among the largest Poecilotheria, making it a true giant in the arboreal category. Its patterning is a beautiful mix of muted grays, yellows, and browns, helping it blend seamlessly into tree bark. While not as vibrantly colored as some other Poecilotheria, its sheer size and intricate markings make it a stunning display tarantula.

Aside from its appearance, P. ornata is known for its speed and defensive nature. While it is not an aggressive species, it can be extremely reactive when disturbed, often choosing to bolt rather than stand its ground. If cornered, however, it will not hesitate to adopt a threat posture or bite, delivering potent venom that can cause significant pain and medical symptoms in humans. Because of this, it is best suited for experienced keepers who are comfortable with fast-moving Old World species.

Natural Habitat & Enclosure Considerations

In the wild, Poecilotheria ornata is found in the tropical forests of Sri Lanka, where it resides in tree hollows and dense vegetation. These forests provide the high humidity and stable temperatures that this species requires.

A proper enclosure for P. ornata should be tall and well-ventilated, with plenty of vertical climbing surfaces such as cork bark slabs, branches, and artificial plants for security. Due to its large size, it requires more space than the average arboreal tarantula, making a spacious enclosure a must. Humidity should be maintained at moderate to high levels, with occasional misting to keep moisture levels stable while ensuring adequate airflow to prevent mold. A small water dish should always be available for hydration.

Given its speed and defensive nature, enclosure maintenance should be approached with caution, and all openings should be secured to prevent escapes. While this species is a stunning display tarantula, it is best left undisturbed outside of necessary care routines.

A Species at Risk

Like many of its Poecilotheria relatives, Poecilotheria ornata is facing serious threats in the wild. Habitat destruction due to deforestation, agricultural expansion, and human development has drastically reduced its natural range. As one of the largest Sri Lankan Poecilotheria species, it is particularly vulnerable to habitat loss, as mature forests with large, sturdy trees are essential for its survival.

P. ornata is currently listed as Endangered on the IUCN Red List, meaning it is at high risk of extinction if conservation efforts are not prioritized. The fragmentation of its habitat has made it increasingly difficult for wild populations to sustain themselves, and illegal collection for the pet trade has further contributed to its decline despite protective regulations.

To protect this species, conservation efforts in Sri Lanka focus on preserving natural forest habitats and enforcing protections against poaching. Ethical captive breeding also plays a crucial role in reducing the demand for wild-caught specimens, helping to maintain stable populations within the hobby. Keepers who wish to work with Poecilotheria ornata should ensure they are acquiring captive-bred specimens from responsible breeders and supporting conservation efforts whenever possible.

By promoting awareness and sustainable keeping practices, tarantula enthusiasts can help protect P. ornata and other endangered Poecilotheria species, ensuring they continue to exist both in the wild and in captivity for future generations.

Housing & Substrate

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Spiderlings

• Enclosure Size: Treehouse Mini, Coffin Crib Mini, Treehouse Extra Small, Sling Crib by Tarantula Cribs.

• Substrate: 1-2” layer of Terra Aranea by The Bio Dude to maintain humidity.

• Features: Include vertical cork bark or similar climbing surface, adequate ventilation, and small water dish or regular misting.

Juveniles

• Enclosure Size: Treehouse Switch - Medium, Medium Treehouse, Medium Slider Crib, Crib Cube 6", Coffin Crib Medium, Crib 8" Cube, Crib Cuboid Medium, Crib Cube 8" by Tarantula Cribs.

• Substrate: Terra Aranea by The Bio Dude to maintain humidity and allow natural climbing behaviors.

• Features: Vertical cork bark, secure lid, adequate cross ventilation, small water dish.

Adults

• Enclosure Size: Treehouse Switch-XL2.0, Large Treehouse - Clear Back, Treehouse Switch - Large, Large Coffin Crib by Tarantula Cribs.

• Substrate: Terra Aranea by The Bio Dude, at least 2-3” deep for humidity retention.

• Features: Vertical cork bark or similar climbing surfaces, secure lid, good ventilation, water dish.

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Temperature & Humidity

• Ideal temperature range: 68–76°F (20–24°C).

• Humidity: Maintain adequate humidity via water dishes and periodic substrate moistening.

Feeding Schedule

Spiderlings

• Frequency:
  Feed twice a week.

• Prey:
  Offer small prey such as flightless fruit flies, confused flour beetles, or pre-killed tiny crickets/roach nymphs. Remove any uneaten prey after 24 hours. increase the size of the prey as the spider grows. Prekill any prey that is over 2/3 the size of the sling. For more detailed information on feeding spiderlings, watch this video: How To Feed Spiderlings & Scorplings (Baby Tarantulas & Scorpions)

• Post-Molt:
  Wait 24–48 hours after a molt before feeding. Ensure that the tarantula’s fangs are solid black and its exoskeleton is not soft or shiny.

Juveniles

• Frequency:
  Feed every 7–10 days.

• Prey:
  Provide 2–3 small to medium crickets or a medium Dubia roach.

• Feeding Guidelines:

  • If the abdomen is thinner than the widest part of the carapace, feed more prey more often.

  • If the abdomen is wider than the carapace, feed less prey, less often.
    This strategy helps prevent obesity, which can lead to molting complications or increase the risk of an abdomen rupture from even a small fall.

• Post-Molt:
  Wait 3–7 days after a molt before feeding, ensuring that the tarantula’s fangs are solid black and its exoskeleton is fully hardened.

Adults

• Frequency:
  Feed every 2–3 weeks (or as needed).

• Prey:
  Offer 4–5 large crickets or one large Dubia roach.

• Feeding Guidelines:

  • If the abdomen is thinner than the carapace’s widest part, increase feeding frequency.

  • If the abdomen is wider than the carapace, reduce feeding frequency.
    This is crucial to avoid obesity, which can interfere with proper molting or cause dangerous issues such as an abdomen rupture.

• Post-Molt:
  Wait 5–10 days after a molt before feeding, ensuring that the tarantula’s fangs are solid black and its exoskeleton is fully hardened.

Breeding Poecilotheria ornata in Captivity

Breeding Poecilotheria ornata (Fringed Ornamental Tarantula) in captivity can be a rewarding endeavor for experienced keepers. This species is known for its impressive size and striking patterns, making it a sought-after addition to many collections.

Sexual Maturity & Pairing

• Male Maturity: Males typically reach maturity within 1.5–2 years, developing longer legs and bulbous pedipalps for sperm transfer.

• Female Maturity: Females generally mature around 2–3 years, achieving a robust size indicative of reproductive readiness.

• Pre-Pairing Preparation: We should ensure the female is well-fed before introducing the male to minimize the risk of cannibalism. Slightly increasing humidity prior to pairing may encourage receptiveness.

Mating Process

• Introduce the male into the female’s enclosure during the evening or nighttime when tarantulas are more active.

• The male will typically perform courtship behaviors, such as tapping or drumming, to signal his presence.

• If receptive, the female may respond similarly or remain still, allowing the male to approach and attempt copulation.

• After successful mating, promptly remove the male to prevent potential aggression from the female.

Egg Sac Production

• If fertilized, the female may produce an egg sac approximately 4–8 weeks after mating.

• Maintain temperatures around 75–80°F (24–27°C) with humidity levels between 70–80%, ensuring adequate ventilation to prevent mold growth.

• An egg sac can contain a substantial number of eggs, with reports indicating clutches ranging from 100 to 300 eggs.

Egg Sac Handling (Optional)

• Some breeders choose to remove the egg sac from the female after 30–40 days for artificial incubation.

• If left with the mother, spiderlings (slings) will typically emerge within 6–8 weeks and undergo their first molt to the second instar stage within 3–4 weeks thereafter.

Raising Spiderlings

• P. ornata spiderlings exhibit a fast growth rate and require stable humidity with proper ventilation.

• Provide enclosures with sufficient vertical space to accommodate their arboreal nature, including structures for climbing and web attachment.

• Feed them appropriately sized prey, such as pinhead crickets or flightless fruit flies, every 2–3 days to support healthy development.

Challenges & Considerations

• Temperament and Speed: P. ornata are known for their speed and can be skittish. Caution is advised during maintenance to prevent escapes or bites.

• Humidity and Ventilation: Maintaining proper humidity levels is crucial, as spiderlings are particularly susceptible to desiccation. Ensure enclosures are well-ventilated to prevent mold growth.

• Conservation Status: P. ornata is among several Poecilotheria species facing habitat loss in their native regions. Captive breeding plays a vital role in reducing the demand for wild-caught specimens and aiding in conservation efforts.

Final Thoughts

Poecilotheria ornata is an absolute showstopper, boasting intricate patterns and one of the largest leg spans in the Poecilotheria genus. Their fast growth, stunning appearance, and bold personality make them a fascinating species to keep. While their speed and defensiveness make them better suited for experienced keepers, those who appreciate fast-moving arboreals will find them incredibly rewarding.

Additional Recommendations

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• For enclosures, consider Tarantula Cribs (code TTC10 for a 10% discount).

• Use Terra Aranea by The Bio Dude for substrate and other bioactive supplies.

• For tarantulas, check out Spider Shoppe (use code TTC10 for 10% off), and visit the Dealer & Discounts section on my website for a curated list of recommended dealers and discount codes.