The Red Slate Ornamental: A Guide to Caring for Poecilotheria Rufilata
The Poecilotheria rufilata, commonly known as the Red Slate Ornamental tarantula, is a stunning and highly sought-after species among arachnid enthusiasts. These arboreal beauties, native to the forests of India, exhibit vibrant colors and a unique, captivating personality. However, their demanding care requirements necessitate a deep understanding of their needs before bringing one into your home. This guide provides essential information for successfully keeping and caring for Poecilotheria rufilata.
Size:
Female 8-9.75in
Males 5-6.5In
Enclosure Setup:
As arboreal tarantulas, Poecilotheria rufilata require a tall enclosure that replicates their natural habitat. A vertical enclosure, such as a glass terrarium or exo-terra, with a minimum size of 12x12x18 inches (LxWxH) is ideal for a single adult.
Key elements for the enclosure include:
Substrate: A substrate mix of coco fiber or peat moss, with a depth of 2-3 inches, offers excellent moisture retention and burrowing possibilities.
Hides: Provide several hides such as cork bark, driftwood, or artificial plants for the tarantula to feel secure and retreat when needed.
Branches and Vines: Incorporate plenty of branches and vines for climbing and web-building. This is crucial for their well-being.
Water Dish: A shallow water dish should be provided, ensuring it is large enough for the tarantula to easily access and drink from.
Humidity and Temperature: Maintaining a consistent humidity level of 70-80% is crucial. Regularly misting the enclosure or utilizing a humidifier will achieve this. The temperature should be kept between 75-80°F during the day and can drop slightly at night.
Feeding:
Poecilotheria rufilata are voracious eaters and readily accept a variety of live prey.
Diet: Offer appropriately sized crickets, locusts, roaches, and other insects. The size of the prey should never exceed the size of the tarantula’s abdomen.
Feeding Frequency: Feed juvenile tarantulas every week , while adults can be fed bi weekly. Always remove any uneaten prey to maintain a clean and healthy environment.
Handling:
Poecilotheria rufilata, while beautiful, are considered a more nervous species.
Minimizing Handling: Observing them from a distance is the best way to admire these fascinating creatures.
Safety Precautions: If handling is absolutely necessary, ensure you have proper protective gear and understand the risks involved.
Other Considerations:
Venom: Like all tarantulas, Poecilotheria rufilata possesses venom. While their venom is not typically considered medically significant to humans, it's crucial to avoid bites by practicing safe handling procedures.
Urticating Hairs: none
Lifespan: With proper care, these tarantulas can live for 10-15 years.
Conclusion:
The Poecilotheria rufilata is a captivating species that requires careful consideration and dedication. If you are willing to provide the specific environment, dietary needs, and safe handling practices, these beautiful spiders can be rewarding additions to your home. However, it's crucial to be well-informed about their requirements and respect their delicate nature to ensure a healthy and thriving tarantula for many years to come.