Indian Ornamental Tarantula

Poecilotheria regalis

Care Guide

Poecilotheria regalis Care Guide

The Indian Ornamental Tarantula

Revision Date: March 2025

Introduction

Poecilotheria regalis, commonly known as the Indian Ornamental Tarantula, is a captivating arboreal species native to India. Renowned for its striking patterns and vibrant coloration, this species is a favorite among experienced tarantula enthusiasts.

Quick Species Snapshot

  • Scientific Name: Poecilotheria regalis

  • Common Names: Indian Ornamental Tarantula, Indian Ornamental Tree Spider

  • Type: Arboreal

  • Native Range: Southeastern India

  • Size: Leg span up to 7 inches (18 cm)

  • Growth Rate: Fast

  • Life Expectancy: Females up to 12 years; males 3–5 years

  • Experience Level: Advanced

Taxonomy & Research Update

Poecilotheria regalis, commonly known as the Indian Ornamental Tarantula, is one of the most iconic and widely recognized species in the Poecilotheria genus. First described by Pocock in 1899, P. regalis is native to the forests of India, where it thrives in warm, humid environments. Unlike its Sri Lankan relatives, this species is found exclusively on the Indian subcontinent, often inhabiting tree hollows and bark crevices.

One of the defining features of P. regalis is the bold white band on the underside of its abdomen, a unique trait that helps distinguish it from other Poecilotheria species. While similar in appearance to Poecilotheria striata, P. regalis is generally larger and has a more pronounced contrast between its gray, black, and white patterning. Due to its availability in the hobby and its stunning appearance, P. regalis has long been one of the most sought-after ornamental tarantulas.

What Makes Poecilotheria regalis So Special?

There’s a reason P. regalis is one of the most popular Poecilotheria species in the hobby. Its striking gray and black cryptic patterning, combined with the signature white ventral stripe on the abdomen, makes it a truly beautiful species. This intricate coloration allows it to blend seamlessly into tree bark in the wild, giving it excellent camouflage.

Aside from its looks, P. regalis is an extremely fast and agile species with a strong feeding response. It’s known for ambushing prey with impressive speed and precision, making feeding time an exciting event. While not the most defensive of the genus, it can be reactive and will not hesitate to bolt or adopt a threat posture when disturbed. Given its potent venom and rapid movements, this species is best suited for keepers with experience handling fast arboreal tarantulas.

Natural Habitat & Enclosure Considerations

In the wild, Poecilotheria regalis inhabits the forests of India, where it constructs webbed retreats in tree hollows and crevices. It thrives in warm, humid environments with dense vegetation, where it remains hidden during the day and emerges at night to hunt.

To properly house this species in captivity, a tall, well-ventilated enclosure with plenty of vertical climbing surfaces is required. Cork bark slabs, artificial plants, and wooden structures will allow the tarantula to establish a secure retreat. Humidity should be maintained at moderate levels, with occasional misting to ensure hydration while keeping the enclosure well-ventilated to prevent mold and stagnant air. A small water dish should also be provided.

Given its high activity level and tendency to move quickly when disturbed, care should be taken during enclosure maintenance. A secure lid is a must, as this species is known for its speed and ability to escape if given the opportunity.

A Species at Risk

While Poecilotheria regalis is one of the more common ornamental tarantulas in captivity, its wild populations are facing increasing threats. The primary danger to this species is habitat destruction due to deforestation, agricultural expansion, and urban development in India. As its native forests continue to be cleared, P. regalis and other arboreal tarantulas are losing the dense tree cover they rely on for survival.

This species is currently listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List, meaning that while it is not yet critically endangered, its populations are in decline. Habitat fragmentation is a significant concern, as isolated populations struggle to maintain genetic diversity and sustainable breeding rates. Additionally, illegal collection for the pet trade has put further pressure on wild populations, despite efforts to regulate and protect the species.

Ethical captive breeding plays a vital role in reducing the demand for wild-caught specimens. As one of the more widely available Poecilotheria species in the hobby, P. regalis can serve as a strong candidate for maintaining a stable captive population. Keepers interested in working with this species should prioritize acquiring captive-bred specimens from reputable breeders to help support conservation efforts.

By promoting awareness, responsible keeping, and habitat conservation initiatives, tarantula enthusiasts can play a role in ensuring that Poecilotheria regalis continues to thrive in both captivity and the wild for generations to come.

Housing & Substrate

Spiderlings

Juveniles

Adults

Temperature & Humidity

  • Temperature: Maintain between 75–80°F (24–27°C)

  • Humidity: 65–75%; ensure proper ventilation to prevent mold

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.

Feeding Guidelines

Monitor the tarantula's abdomen size to adjust feeding frequency:

  • If the abdomen is smaller than the carapace width, increase feeding frequency.

  • If the abdomen is larger, reduce feeding frequency to prevent obesity.

Behavior & Temperament

Poecilotheria regalis is definitely not a tarantula you want to underestimate. Like most Pokies, it's incredibly fast, agile, and can bolt in the blink of an eye. While this species isn't particularly aggressive, it's quick to flee if disturbed—but trust me, corner it or make it feel trapped, and it won't hesitate to bite. The venom of this Old World species is potent, causing intense pain, muscle cramping, nausea, and even sweating, which means it's definitely not a species you should handle casually. In fact, I always recommend that you avoid handling altogether and instead appreciate these fascinating spiders safely behind glass.

Breeding Poecilotheria regalis in Captivity

Breeding Poecilotheria regalis (Indian Ornamental Tarantula) in captivity can be a rewarding endeavor for experienced enthusiasts. This species is known for its striking appearance and relatively cooperative breeding behavior.

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. regalis 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. regalis 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. regalis 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 regalis, the Indian Ornamental Tarantula, stands out among its relatives like P. metallica, P. vittata, and P. subfusca with its unique blend of size, coloration, and temperament. While P. metallica is renowned for its vibrant blue hues and P. vittata for its cryptic, ghost-like coloration, P. regalis impresses with its bold silver-grey patterns accented by striking yellow bands beneath the front legs. Compared to the distinct Highland and Lowland morphs of P. subfusca, P. regalis offers a more consistent appearance across individuals, simplifying identification for keepers.

Behaviorally, P. regalis shares the remarkable speed, agility, and potent venom common to Poecilotheria, but it tends to be slightly less skittish than P. vittata. Even so, handling is still strongly discouraged due to the species' unpredictable nature and medically significant venom.

Ultimately, P. regalis is an exceptional addition for experienced tarantula enthusiasts seeking a beautiful, dynamic arboreal species. It offers the visual impact of P. metallica, the intriguing temperament of P. vittata, and the adaptability and presence reminiscent of P. subfusca.

Additional Recommendations:

For top-quality enclosures, I strongly recommend Tarantula Cribs—use affiliate code TTC10 for 10% off. The ideal substrate is Terra Aranea by The Bio Dude.

When acquiring new tarantulas, always purchase from trusted breeders like Spider Shoppe. Remember to use code TTC10 at checkout to save 10%. For additional dealers and discounts, visit the Dealer & Discounts section on my website.

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Poecilotheria ornata
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Poecilotheria subfusca