Ivory Ornamental Tarantula

Poecilotheria subfusca

Care Guide

Poecilotheria subfusca Care Guide

The Ivory Ornamental Tarantula

Revision Date: March 2025

Introduction

Poecilotheria subfusca, known as the Ivory Ornamental Tarantula or Montane Tiger Spider, is a striking arboreal species originating from Sri Lanka. Enthusiasts prize this tarantula for its unique beauty, speed, and intriguing variations, notably its two distinct morphs, Highland and Lowland.

Quick Species Snapshot

  • Scientific Name: Poecilotheria subfusca

  • Common Names: Ivory Ornamental, Montane Tiger Spider

  • Type: Arboreal

  • Native Range: Central highlands and lower elevations of Sri Lanka

  • Size: Highland form ~6 inches (15 cm); Lowland form ~8 inches (20 cm) diagonal leg span

  • Growth Rate: Fast

  • Life Expectancy: Females ~15 years; Males ~4 years

  • Experience Level: Advanced

Taxonomy & Research Update

Poecilotheria subfusca, commonly known as the Ivory Ornamental Tarantula, is a breathtaking arboreal species native to the montane forests of Sri Lanka. First described by Pocock in 1895, this species is part of the Poecilotheria genus, a group of highly agile, fast-moving tarantulas known for their intricate patterns and potent venom.

What makes P. subfusca particularly interesting is the presence of two distinct forms: the Lowland Form and the Highland Form. The Highland Form tends to be larger and bulkier, with lighter ivory-colored markings, while the Lowland Form is slightly smaller and darker in overall coloration. Despite these differences, both forms share the same care requirements and behavior.

Due to its natural habitat being restricted to specific regions of Sri Lanka, P. subfusca remains one of the rarer Poecilotheria species in the hobby. Conservation efforts and responsible breeding are crucial to ensuring its continued presence in captivity.

What Makes Poecilotheria subfusca So Special?

Among Poecilotheria species, P. subfusca stands out for its stunning high-contrast markings and elegant, ghostly appearance. The intricate ivory and gray patterns across its body provide excellent camouflage in tree bark, allowing it to blend into its environment seamlessly. The Highland Form, in particular, has an almost ethereal appearance, with lighter markings that give it a unique presence compared to other members of the genus.

This species is also known for its incredible speed and agility. Like most Poecilotheria, P. subfusca is highly reactive and will bolt or adopt a defensive posture when disturbed. It has an intense feeding response and will ambush prey with precision, making it an exciting species to observe in captivity. However, its potent venom and defensive tendencies make it a species best suited for experienced keepers.

Natural Habitat & Enclosure Considerations

In the wild, Poecilotheria subfusca inhabits the montane and lowland forests of Sri Lanka, thriving in high-humidity environments with consistent warmth and dense vegetation. Its preferred habitat consists of tree hollows, crevices, and thick foliage, where it constructs webbed retreats for shelter.

To replicate this environment in captivity, a tall, well-ventilated enclosure is essential, with plenty of vertical climbing surfaces such as cork bark slabs, artificial plants, and wooden retreats. This species requires moderate to high humidity, but proper airflow is crucial to preventing stagnant conditions and mold growth. Misting should be done occasionally to maintain hydration, and a small water dish should always be available.

Due to its fast movements and sensitivity to environmental changes, P. subfusca thrives in a stable, controlled setup. A secure enclosure with minimal disturbance will allow this species to exhibit its natural behaviors while reducing stress.

A Species at Risk

Like many of its Poecilotheria relatives, Poecilotheria subfusca is facing significant threats in the wild. The destruction of Sri Lanka’s montane and lowland forests due to deforestation, agriculture, and urbanization has placed immense pressure on its populations. This species is currently listed as Endangered on the IUCN Red List, with its numbers continuing to decline.

The fragmentation of its habitat poses one of the biggest risks to P. subfusca. As forested areas become smaller and more isolated, the ability of wild populations to maintain genetic diversity and reproduce effectively is greatly reduced. Additionally, illegal collection for the pet trade has further contributed to its decline, despite conservation laws meant to protect it.

Efforts to preserve P. subfusca include habitat conservation projects and ethical captive breeding within the tarantula hobby. Responsible breeding plays a crucial role in reducing the demand for wild-caught specimens, helping to sustain populations without negatively impacting the species in the wild. Keepers who choose to work with Poecilotheria species should ensure they are acquiring captive-bred specimens from reputable sources and supporting conservation initiatives whenever possible.

For those lucky enough to keep this species, P. subfusca represents more than just a beautiful tarantula, it’s a reminder of the importance of ethical keeping and conservation efforts to protect vulnerable species for future generations.

Housing & Substrate

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Spiderlings

Juveniles

Adults

Temperature & Humidity

  • Temperature: Maintain between 68–76°F (20–24°C)

  • Humidity: Moderate (65–75%). Mist occasionally, 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.

Behavior & Temperament

Poecilotheria subfusca is exceptionally fast and agile, displaying skittish behavior. While typically less defensive, it will retreat rapidly or bite if cornered. Its potent venom can cause prolonged pain and muscle cramps. Handling is strongly discouraged.

Breeding Poecilotheria subfusca in Captivity

Breeding Poecilotheria subfusca (Ivory Ornamental Tarantula) in captivity can be both rewarding and challenging due to their specific environmental needs and behaviors. With careful preparation and attention to detail, successful propagation is achievable.

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. subfusca 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. subfusca 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. subfusca 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

The Ivory Ornamental (Poecilotheria subfusca) is easily one of the most intriguing members of the Poecilotheria genus, especially because of its distinct Highland and Lowland morphs. While species like P. metallica stun with vivid blues, and P. regalis captivates with bold yellow highlights, P. subfusca offers something uniquely different: subtle, earthy tones and a fascinating morph-based variation that's directly tied to its native elevation. The Highland morph, smaller and darker, contrasts sharply with the larger, lighter Lowland form, making this species particularly appealing for keepers interested in biodiversity within a single species.

Behavior-wise, P. subfusca is typically less defensive than species like P. ornata or P. regalis, but its speed and venom potency should never be underestimated. Handling is strongly discouraged due to the medically significant venom. If you're an advanced keeper fascinated by diversity and subtle beauty in arboreal tarantulas, P. subfusca is absolutely worth adding to your collection.

Additional Recommendations:

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