SPECIAL NOTE: USPS forbids shipping venomous spiders or scorpions in the mail.

Because of this, we ship these animals FedEx priority overnight for a flat fee of $39.99.

This species has medically significant venom, bites can require medical attention!

• Due to the strong nature of this species’ venom, extra caution should always be taken any time the enclosure is open
• This species is a lightning quick arboreal with what’s considered a medically significant bite, this species is not for the beginner keeper and should not be handled.
• You may see it more often out at night after the room has been dark for a few hours.

Name: Poecilotheria Striata is native to Mysuru, India. The name Poecilotheria is derived from Greek “poikilos'' – spotted and “therion” – wild beast. It is also commonly referred to as the “Mysore ornamental” tarantula.  

Recommended Enclosure Size: Poecilotheria striata is an arboreal species, meaning the enclosure should be taller than it is long. The recommended enclosure height is at least 3x the spider’s diagonal leg span, and the other dimensions should not be less than two times the spider’s diagonal leg span. This species does best in an enclosure with ample cross ventilation.

Temperature: This species thrives in the mid 70’s to low 80’s, so a temperature range of 74-80 degrees Fahrenheit is ideal, though no issues have come from keeping them at general room temperature of 72 degrees Fahrenheit. Temperatures regularly dipping below 65 degrees or spiking above 85 degrees should be avoided.

Humidity: These spiders thrive in a humid environment, thriving in ambient humidity between 75% and 85%. This can be achieved by making sure the substrate is always at least lightly moistened, the enclosure sides and decor should be spritzed at least lightly around 2x a week to provide your spiderling droplets to drink from. A small water dish such as a water bottle ink cap, tattoo ink cup or something of similar size can be provided for spiderlings.

Size: 1.25"-1.5" at time of sale. Mature adults can reach up to a 7” diagonal leg span.

Age:  At time of sale. Mysore oriental tarantula spiderlings sold by Josh’s Frogs are at least 2-3 months old. Females of this species can get up to 12 years of age, with males averaging about one third of that lifespan.

Feeding: At time of sale Mysore ornamentals sold by Josh’s Frogs are eating Hydei fruit flies, as the spider molts and grows, so should the prey items, with the goal size of feeder insects being the size of the spider’s carapace or smaller. Spiderlings should be fed every 4-7 days, adults every 7-10. To prevent injury, never offer food to a tarantula less than a week after its most recent molt.

Sexing: Due to age, Mysore ornamental spiderlings sold by Josh’s Frogs are sold as unsexed. Specimens of 2.5”-3” will be able to start being accurately sexed. The most accurate method will always be molt sexing. The molt of a female tarantula, between the top set of book lungs will have a slit with spermatheca and a uterus externus, which on a smaller spider will just be a flap that moves when manipulated with a toothpick or a pin. A male tarantula will have a much more plain slit that will not budge with attempts to manipulate it.

Color/Pattern: Young spiderlings are largely grayscale in color, but some start to their adult patterning even as babies. As they grow and molt their colors will change to have bold markings on its carapace and abdomen, but once you look at its underside it has bright yellow markings contrasted against black bands.

Social Behavior: While some short term success has been reported housing Poecilotheria in communal setups, reports usually conclude that as they age they do tend to become cannibalistic. It is for this reason that we recommend that these spiders be housed solitarily.

Breeding: Males and females of sexual maturity can be put in the same enclosure briefly for the purpose of mating. Ideally both will be fairly freshly molted and well fed. The male and female should be separated fairly immediately after insertion is observed (the male will generally initiate separation on his own after he has had success) or if the spiders are acting less than receptive or aggressive towards each other.

Natural Range: The species is found in dry and moist deciduous forests, at altitudes between 500 and 1000 m. It is endemic to India. 

History in the Hobby: Poecilotheria striata is classified as vulnerable due to its restricted and declining range and occupancy, and the ongoing fragmentation of its habitat. The species is commonly traded in the pet trade

Still not sure if Mysore Ornamental from Josh's Frogs is the right pet for you? Read the reviews below and see what other customers are saying!