Heteropoda boiei (3cm)

Heteropoda boiei is a real gem in the collection of any lover of fast arboreal spiders. This species, native to the tropical forests of Malaysia and Indonesia, is commonly referred to as the huntsman spider. It is distinguished by its unique body structure, which allows it to move rapidly over vertical surfaces and hide in narrow cracks in the bark. Appearance and characteristics: these spiders have a flattened body and very long legs, which reach impressive sizes in adults. Their coloration is a masterful camouflage - dominated by shades of brown, gray and beige, interspersed with darker stripes. This appearance makes the spider almost invisible against the background of tree trunks. Unlike bird spiders, this species has highly developed eyesight, which makes it an extremely effective hunter. Behavior and venom: Heteropoda boiei does not build hunting nets; it relies on its extreme speed and agility. It is a defensive and skittish species that chooses instant escape when threatened. These spiders have no scalding hairs, but due to their dynamism, handling inside the terrarium should be done with great care. The venom is not considered dangerous to a healthy person, but the bite can be mechanically painful. Breeding conditions: a vertical type terrarium is essential for this arboreal spider. The key design element should be patches of cork oak bark, which will allow the spider a natural shelter. As a substrate, peat or coconut fiber with an admixture of peat moss will work best, which will help keep the humidity at about 75%. Heteropoda boiei requires good ventilation and regular sprinkling of the terrarium walls, from which the spiders readily draw water.