Description Arguably the largest of all poecilotheria, there is no doubt that these are strikingly-patterned, and extremely attractive animals, which would account for their relative rarity in captivity, and consequently high price. They are indiginous to either the lowlands or mountainous areas of central Sri-Lanka, so like to be kept cooler than other poecilotheria. They are fast-growing, both large and extremely fast, but are considered to be the calmest species of their genus - something to be thankful for, given that the effects of their venom are severely unpleasant to say the least. For speed and venom potency reasons these are not ideal for beginner keepers, and mistakes with interaction or conditions will most likely not be tolerated very well. Housing Housing these spiders requires a normal arboreal setup, with good levels of airflow and humidity nicely balanced, a large water bowl, and lots of climbing surfaces, and places to retreat. Provide a choice of hiding areas, and keep one portion of the tank very dark, as these spiders really do not like bright light. In the UK, a heatpad is necessary, but temperatures of around 70F are tolerated well by this species, and they do not appreciate the higher temperatures of 80 or 90 preferred by their cousins from the same country, P.fasicata... Feeding Standard spider food works well with P.subfusca - crickets, locusts, roaches and meal / wax worms will all be taken with enthusiasm, and killed quickly. A very fast growing species, these spiders eat lots in the earlier part of their lives, and as a result are easy to overfeed, and may not live very long if over-indulged. Males can expect to survive only 2 years or so, although females can usually make 4 or 5 years. Temperament All poecilotheria are shy, nervous, and retiring, but also very easily spooked, and equipped with surprising speed with which to escape threatening situations. Bites from P.subfusca are rare, but where bites have occurred, human reaction to them can be severe, are extremely locally painful, and cause body-wide symptoms which can include muscle cramps, dizzyness, vomiting, and fainting. Bites from this spider are often multiple, and they have a tendency to hang on as along as they can suggesting that they are willing to inject venom in a defensive bite, and bites should not be assumed to be of the 'dry' variety. Hospital attention is likely to be necessary. Notes A well designed and built terrarium will be a huge advantage in looking after this spider. Strategic placement of heat pads and hides will allow you to encourage basking in the open, and to watch the spider at night, even when it is hiding, without placing undue stress on the animal. Use sections of black card to line the glass by the spider's hide so that at night you can remove this to check all is OK with your hidden spider. Treated with respect, these animals are a joy to keep and watch, and come close to the very definition of 'living art'. |
